Spirituality generally relates to better mental health, greater well-being, and higher quality of life. Physical health and medical outcomes may also be affected. Besides its connection with health, there are several practical reasons why health professionals ought to inquire about spirituality, particularly in patients with serious or chronic illness. Spiritual beliefs influence medical decisions that affect health care, may conflict with medical care, and can influence the doctor–patient relationship either positively or negatively. Support from the faith community can help patients cope better with difficult health stressors, may improve early detection of disease, and can enhance compliance with medical treatment. Although important for all patients, spiritual issues are particularly important for women, the elderly, the chronically ill, the disabled, and members of certain ethnic groups.
aProfessor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Associate Professor of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, GRECC, VA Medical Center, USA
Harold G. Koenig, M.D., Box 3400, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
☆ Religious beliefs and practices are commonly used to cope with medical illness, and tend to be associated with greater well-being and lower rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide
Religious beliefs and practices are generally related to better health behaviors, stronger immune function, better cardiovascular status, and longer overall survival
Religious beliefs influence medical decision-making and may conflict with medical care
Taking a spiritual history is quickly becoming the standard of care for certain patient populations, and may enhance trust in the doctor–patient relationship
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