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Comparative Study

| Published: December 25, 2015

Religion, Spirituality, and Schizophrenia: A Review

Altaf Ahmad Malla ,

Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Kashmir, India Google Scholar More about the auther

Nasir Mohammad Bhat

Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Kashmir, India Google Scholar More about the auther

DIP: 18.01.179/20150301

DOI: 10.25215/0301.179

ABSTRACT

Religion and spirituality exert a significant role in the lives of many individuals, including people with schizophrenia. However, the contribution of religion and spirituality to various domains (psychopathology, explanatory models, treatment seeking, treatment adherence, outcome, etc.) has not received much attention. In this article, we review the exiting data with regards to the relationship of religion, spirituality, and various domains in patients with schizophrenia. Available evidence suggests that for some patients, religion instills hope, purpose, and meaning in their lives, whereas for others, it induces spiritual despair. Patients with schizophrenia also exhibit religious delusions and hallucinations. Further, there is some evidence to suggest that religion influences the level of psychopathology. Religion and religious practices also influence social integration, risk of suicide attempts, and substance use. Religion and spirituality also serves as an effective method of coping with the illness. Religion also influences the treatment compliance and outcome in patients with schizophrenia
Responding Author Information

Altaf Ahmad Malla @ nasirbhat111@gmail.com

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ISSN 2348-5396

ISSN 2349-3429

DIP: 18.01.179/20150301

DOI: 10.25215/0301.179

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Published in   Volume 03, Issue 1, October-December, 2015