Spirituality as a form of treatment for depression

Spirituality as a Form of Treatment of Depression

In recent history, psychologists have avoided the integration of spirituality in mental health treatment for fear that it would minimize the science itself, among other reasons, according to Jennifer Good (2010). However, in the last decade or so, many studies have been completed on the relevance of spirituality and religion with regard to a person's mental health, per Good (2010). The outcomes would suggest that spirituality is indeed important in the treatment of mental health and specifically relevant to the treatment of depression, also according to Good (2010). Good (2010) also stated that it is important to note that the definition of spirituality varies and that it is not regarded as the same thing as religion. Regardless of the definition, there are several schools of thought on the importance of incorporating spirituality into the treatment of depression.

To understand why it is considered important, it is essential to have an understanding of what is meant by spirituality. According to Jennifer Good (2010), " There is no one definition of spirituality. Becker (2001) contends that spirituality refers to the soul or the mind and different aspects of human nature that are intangible. Similarly, O'Reilly (2004) defines spirituality as an expression of the transcendent ways in which human potential is fulfilled. Synonyms such as hope, wholeness, meaning, harmony, and transcending (O'Reilly, 2004) are associated with the word spirituality. Mohr (2006) defines spirituality as an individual's search for meaning and a belief in a higher power apart from oneself." Based on these definitions or a facsimile thereof, many believe spirituality to be an integral component of depression.

Julie Redstone ( Date Unknown), states, "There are many views today regarding the source of depression, those that involve an understanding of brain chemistry and of neuro-transmitters being among the more popular. Yet, there remains a vast gap between the current way of treating depression as an entity - clinically, chemically, and in terms of the body - and the way of treating depression as an energy related to consciousness. This energy moves from the energy bodies that each human being contains into the physical layer of our being, thus affecting our brain chemistry. The energy of our larger, spiritual self significantly influences the way in which brain chemistry and neuro-transmitters work, and when changes are made to the flow or current, these can selectively improve the situation so that a new balance within the brain is achieved." Thus, in her view, spirituality creates an energy which influences our body chemistry, which in turn controls feelings of depression.

Joe Bulao Jr. (Date Unknown), insists that the "the root cause is spiritual." Based on his assertion, he further claims that "only a spiritual cure can get rid of depression once and for all." Though this may work for some, it does not address the chemical imbalances which are present in persons whom are diagnosed with depression. Though this is an extreme, he is probably correct that spirituality is important based on research conducted by others.