How does faith impact our health?

By Sudie Crouch | Health & Wellness columnist

As a board-certified health coach, taking a holistic approach to a client’s wellness can mean exploring all dimensions of their health. It’s not always just about what they eat and how much they move. Oftentimes, an important and overlooked factor to someone’s health can be found in their faith.

According to an unpublished study by the Mayo Clinic, “94 percent of patients regard their spiritual health and their physical health as equally important; want their spiritual needs met; and would welcome an inquiry regarding their religious and spiritual needs.”

Another survey of family physicians found that 96 percent believe spiritual well-being is an important factor in health, yet this aspect of a patient’s overall wellbeing is seldom if ever approached.

WHY FAITH CAN BE IMPORTANT IN HEALTH:

t A 2001 Mayo Clinic study showed “that religious involvement and spirituality are associated with better health outcomes, including greater longevity, coping skills, and healthrelated quality of life (even during terminal illness) and less anxiety, depression, and suicide.” t Being diagnosed with a chronic or terminal illness can test one’s faith but it can also help the individual hold onto the hope they will get well. While our faith may not necessarily cure us, it definitely can provide some much needed support and an anchor during any health crises. t When people have a strong connection to a spiritual practice, it helps them feel connected to something a bit higher than themselves. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Harold Koenig released an article that explored the scientific connection between how religion and well-being were connected, indicating that our spirituality plays a role in not only helping us get through those difficult diagnoses but may also influence the prevention and promote overall wellness. t A spiritual practice may not necessarily be a religious one in order to be effective. Many people have reported experiencing increased overall well-being from various practices that may not be linked to an organized or specific religion. Feeling connected to a Higher Power and following those tenets seem to be what’s key. t Can reduce anxiety, which can in turn reduce cortisol levels and blood pressure, two factors heavily related to illness. t Helps with the ‘visioning’ process of health , allowing the individual to have faith that they will be well. When we see ourselves as healthy, we subconsciously take steps towards actualizing that goal. t Promotes the tenets of gratitude and forgiveness which can help individuals experience more positive feelings and emotions. t Can help shape a person’s values, behaviors, and experiences, which can result in them taking steps towards overall well-being and healthier choices.

Taking a holistic approach to wellness and overall health should include exploring a person’s spirituality and their beliefs. It can help provide insight and understanding into the whole person, which also allows them to feel open to share more with their practitioners, which can also lead to better person-centered care.

While our faith may not necessarily cure us, it is definitely an under-looked aspect in the holistic approach to treating and is an important dimension of overall wellness.