The Missing Link: How Spirituality Can Transform Your Mental Health Journey

The concepts of religiosity and spirituality are often used interchangeably. But they represent distinct dimensions of human experience. Both are associated with beliefs and practices related to the transcendent, but they influence individuals differently, particularly in the realm of mental health. Let’s explore the differences between religiosity and spirituality and  how each impacts on mental well-being.

 The definition of religiosity:

Religiosity refers to adherence to a set of beliefs, practices, and rituals associated with an organized religious institution. It involves participating in communal worship, adhering to religious doctrines, and engaging in specific rituals, such as prayer or fasting, as prescribed by a religious tradition. Religiosity often includes a moral framework, guidelines for behaviour, and a sense of belonging to a religious community.

 The definition of spirituality:

Spirituality involves a personal sense of connection to something or someone greater than oneself, which may or may not be linked to formal religious structures. Spirituality emphasizes personal growth, inner peace, and a search for meaning and purpose in life.  While spirituality can be expressed through religious practices, it can also manifest in secular ways, such as through meditation, mindfulness, or the appreciation of nature. As a psychiatrist, I have met many individuals who are agnostic, or do not follow any religious belief but are deeply spiritual individuals.

 The impact of religiosity on mental health:

Religiosity can have both positive and negative effects on mental health, depending on how it is experienced and practiced. Two of the obvious positive impact of religiosity on mental health is the sense of belonging through identification with the religious community and the external rituals of prayer and religious rites which can help to alleviate stress, anxiety and depression.

That said, excessive control by religious figure of the religious community can also give rise to the feelings of isolation and exploitation, lack of freedom, resulting in stress, anxiety and depression. Religious dogma can also contribute to feelings of shame, guilt, anxiety and profound feeling of failure when the individual cannot attain the standard required by the religious leader or the community.

 The impact of spirituality on mental health:

Spirituality, in contrast, tends to focus on personal growth, the pursuit of inner peace, purpose in life, and positive relationship with others. Spirituality generally fosters positive mental health outcomes. This leads to a greater satisfaction with life, emotional well-being, productivity and resilience. These are important protective factors against stress, anxiety and depression. 

Jesus and religiosity:

No matter our religious beliefs, we have to say that Jesus is a deeply spiritual  individual. He lives His life in the moment in the presence of God, spends time in prayer, meditation and in communion with God. His life serves as a great contrast with the religious leaders of His days who practise all the religious rites and rituals, follow the religious dogma and laws but have little to no spirituality. It is little wonder that Jesus’ example and teachings are pathway to positive mental health.

Christian spirituality:

If you are a Christian, how would you define Christian spirituality? For me, it is rather simple but deeply challenging. It is encapsulated in what I learnt as a teenager in a youth group:

“Live as Jesus lived and do as Jesus did”

Christian spirituality is the outworking of an inner reality of a life deeply connected with Abba Father. It is living life constantly beholding His face. Christian spirituality is relational, developmental and aspirational (refer to Chapter 5 of Mental Health in search of Spirituality). Christian spirituality is a more excellent way to better mental health.