Relationship Between Religion and Mental Health

According to Dr. Harold G. Koenig, the co-director of the Center for Spirituality, Theology, and Health at Duke University Medical Center, a devoted religious person normally experiences better mental and physical overall health. He says religious people experience:

     - better coping mechanisms

     - more hope

     - more optimism

     - less depression

     - less anxiety

     - better immune systems

     - lower blood pressure

     - less tendency to drink/ smoke

It is important to remember that it is a person’s personal choice whether or not to immerse themselves into religion, however, we can present them with facts and information to help them make a more informed decision. The facts say observing religion will be beneficial to your mental and physical health. Whether or not someone decides to practice religion is their own choice.

Source: http://www.beliefnet.com/Health/2006/05/What-Religion-Can-Do-For-Your-Health.aspx#