Spirituality and Mental Health Across Cultures

Religiosity and spirituality (R/S) are associated with lower rates of depression, suicide, mortality, and substance abuse, and are positively correlated with well-being and quality of life. Spirituality and Mental Health Across Cultures is a timely exploration of the implications of R/S on mental health, written and edited by 38 experts from 11 countries. It provides a succinct and trustworthy review of the latest research and how it can be applied to clinical care, covering the principles and fundamental questions, main beliefs and practices, and practical guidance on assessing and integrating R/S in personal history anamnesis or psychotherapy.

Format: Hardback
Length: 496 pages
Publication date: 02 August 2021
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Religiosity and spirituality (R/S) hold immense significance in the daily lives of numerous individuals across diverse cultures and contexts. This profound aspect is linked to reduced rates of depression, suicide, mortality, and substance abuse, while also positively correlating with overall well-being and quality of life. Despite the growing academic recognition and substantial scientific literature documenting these connections, this knowledge has yet to be effectively translated into clinical practice. Part of the expanding Oxford Cultural Psychiatry series, "Spirituality and Mental Health Across Cultures" emerges as a timely exploration of the profound implications of R/S on mental health. Comprising contributions from 38 esteemed experts in the fields of spirituality and mental health hailing from 11 countries, this unique resource offers a comprehensive examination of the relationship between mental health and world religions, agnosticism, atheism, and spiritualism unaffiliated with organized religion. With a practical approach, it provides readers with a concise and reliable review of the latest research, highlighting its practical applications in clinical care.

The book is organized into three sections. The first section delves into the principles and fundamental questions that intertwine science, history, philosophy, neuroscience, religion, and spirituality with mental health. It explores the interplay between these diverse aspects and sheds light on the complexities of their relationship. The second section focuses on the primary beliefs and practices associated with world religions and their profound implications for mental health. It examines the diverse spiritual traditions, rituals, and beliefs that shape individuals' experiences and provides insights into how they can promote mental well-being. The third section examines the impact of R/S on specific clinical situations and offers practical guidance on how to effectively assess and integrate R/S into personal history anamnesis or psychotherapy.

Through its comprehensive coverage, "Spirituality and Mental Health Across Cultures" serves as a valuable resource for mental health professionals, researchers, and students alike. It equips readers with the knowledge and tools necessary to understand the multifaceted relationship between R/S and mental health, enabling them to provide holistic and culturally sensitive care to their clients. By bridging the gap between academia and clinical practice, this book contributes to the advancement of mental health research and practice, promoting a more inclusive and compassionate approach to addressing the mental health needs of individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Weight: 878g
Dimension: 249 x 242 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198846833