As we are getting familiarised and open to our mental health, it is quite saddening that there are still people who disregard this fact – mental health problems are real and must be faced with professional help. But, in this era of awareness, where does spirituality stand in this matter?
The mental health of spiritual or religious individuals can be influenced by various factors, including their beliefs, practices, and support systems. While spirituality and religious practices can provide comfort, purpose, and community, it does not make individuals immune to mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues.
Depression can affect anyone, regardless of their spiritual or religious beliefs. It is a complex condition that can arise from various factors, including genetic predisposition, life events, biochemical imbalances, and psychological factors.
It is important to recognise that mental health issues, including depression, are not signs of weakness or a lack of faith.
If a spiritual or religious person is experiencing depression or struggling with their mental health, it is essential to approach the situation with compassion and understanding. Here are some suggestions to support their mental well-being:
- Encourage seeking professional help: Encourage the individual to contact mental health professionals such as therapists, counsellors, or psychiatrists who can provide appropriate support and treatment.
- Foster an open dialogue: Create a safe and non-judgmental space for them to share their feelings and concerns. Encourage them to talk openly about their struggles and offer your support and understanding.
- Promote self-care practices: Encourage them to engage in self-care activities that promote their mental well-being, such as exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and engaging in hobbies or activities they enjoy.
- Support their spiritual practices: If spirituality or religious practices are important to the individual, encourage them to continue engaging in activities that bring comfort and connection. This may include attending religious services, prayer, meditation, or seeking guidance from spiritual leaders.
- Offer social support: Loneliness and isolation can worsen mental health. Encourage the person to seek support from their religious or spiritual community, where they may find understanding and a sense of belonging.
- Educate yourself: Learn more about mental health issues, including depression, and how they can affect individuals, including those with spiritual or religious beliefs. This understanding will enable you to provide more informed support.
Remember, supporting someone’s mental health requires patience, empathy, and a willingness to listen. If you’re concerned about someone’s well-being, it is important to encourage them to seek professional help from mental health experts who can provide appropriate assessment, diagnosis, and treatment.
Our mental health issues are real regardless of our spiritual beliefs. It is also about time to acknowledge that our mental health does not base on our spirituality – over-spirituality may also lead us to worst when we do not deal with the fact that mental health problems occur to everyone and our spiritual belief does not exempt us from it.
Dina Relojo is the social media manager of Psychreg. She is a high school teacher from the Philippines.
