By Niku Sedarat
For centuries, religion has been a pillar of the human experience. For some, religion bolsters the human psyche—providing hope, fulfillment, and gratification. For others, religion can hamper these emotional experiences.
The relationship between religion and mental health among Black and Latino Americans, as well as older adults in these groups, has been extensively documented in empirical research. Within this research, a positive theme emerges: regardless of the religion at hand, the act of attending serves—through the church, synagogue, mosque, and/or temple—can support mental well-being.
Often, attending such services provides relief from symptoms of psychological distress. In fact, according to the research on "Religion and Mental Health in Racial and Ethnic Minority Populations,” for the Latinx community, attending religious services and having higher subjective religiosity are linked to lower odds of depressive, anxiety, and substance use disorders, as well as reduced suicidal ideation and depressive symptoms. In fact, for racial minority groups such as the Black community, church attendance has been linked to a greater decline in depressive symptoms among Blacks compared to the white church-going community as religious participation such as attendance can also buffer the effects of discrimination on psychological distress more effectively for the black community.
While research has shown the undeniable positive effects of religion on minority groups, there is also a darker side to the story. For example, maladaptive coping strategies, such as viewing stressors as punishment from God, are associated with poor mental health—particularly amongst the LatinX community. Additionally, the line between spirituality and mental health often blurs, leading to a greater underestimation and stigmatization of mental health challenges. This stigma is exacerbated by a lack of mental health education, creating a facade that these symptoms are solely rooted in religious beliefs rather than anatomical and psychological processes.
Interestingly, research has identified a "religiosity gap" between mental health professionals and their patients, with clinicians generally being less religious. This disparity can sometimes lead to misunderstandings or a reluctance to discuss spiritual matters in clinical settings. However, there's growing recognition that understanding a patient's spiritual beliefs is crucial for comprehensive care. Mental health professionals are increasingly encouraged to take "spiritual histories" as part of their assessments, allowing them to grasp how patients' beliefs influence their coping strategies and attitudes toward treatment.
While religion continues to play a vital role in supporting mental health, particularly among minority communities, it is crucial to approach this relationship with nuance and cultural sensitivity. By promoting a balanced understanding of both spiritual and psychological well-being, we can create more inclusive, supportive environments that honor the diverse experiences of individuals navigating the complex interplay between faith and mental health. This holistic approach not only respects the deeply personal nature of both religion and mental health but also paves the path for more effective, culturally competent mental healthcare.
Religion and Mental Health in Racial and Ethnic Minority Populations: A Review of the Literature - PMC (nih.gov)
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