Spirituality as a coping resource: Towards integration into mental health framework.
PLOS mental health 2026 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmen.0000667 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key points | Argues that spiritual practices such as surrender, mindfulness, detachment, yoga, dietary and hygiene rituals, and selfless service support coping with stress and adversity, but emphasizes that the spirituality-mental health relationship is context-dependent and non-linear, with potential challenges including maladaptive interpretations. |
Abstract
Spirituality has long been recognized as a fundamental dimension of human health and well-being, yet its integration into mental health frameworks remains limited. This essay explores how spirituality is experienced as a coping resource for mental well-being, highlighting mechanisms through which spiritual and religious practices support emotional regulation, resilience, and a sense of purpose. Drawing on theoretical perspectives, empirical research, and lived experiences from diverse cultural contexts including Nepal, it highlights practices such as surrender, mindfulness, detachment, yoga, dietary and hygiene rituals, and selfless service contribute to coping with stress and adversity. The essay also considers the context-dependent and non-linear nature of the spirituality-mental health relationship, potential challenges, including maladaptive interpretations of spiritual beliefs. It underscores the need to balance spirituality with evidence-based mental health care. Recognizing spirituality as a complementary pathway to mental well-being may enhance holistic approaches to mental health and inform interventions that are culturally relevant and personally meaningful.