How can one bring up the topic of spirituality into a therapy session without feeling worried? It is no surprise that some people have reservations bringing up spiritual questions in a session. In the past some mental health professionals have not been open to talking about the client’s spirituality. How can a client talk about spirituality and how can the mental health professional help the client talk about spirituality? The answer is VALUES. Generally, people have VALUES and spirituality is a value for some people. Therefore, exploring values with their therapist can allow for spirituality to be discussed during treatment.
Spirituality as a value might mean different things to different people. Some people understand this idea of spirituality intuitively, while others struggle to put it into words. So, what is spirituality? Spirituality is a system of beliefs in a higher force, usually referred to as God, or in ancestors or other high powers. This belief usually points to something or someone bigger than the believer. The believer tries to conform their lives to this higher power and live accordingly. This belief could be a source of comfort for many and discomfort for others. Spirituality can be practiced on an individual level or in a community. Some people who engage in group spiritual practices create what some could refer to as religions. Examples of religions include Hinduism, Judaism, Christianity and Islam, just to name a few.
A fundamental component of spirituality is PRAYER, which may be able to help improve a person’s mental health. For example, prayer groups or worship communities can provide social and emotional support for some individuals. Prayer can help some individuals manage stress as it is very similar to meditation. A belief in a higher power and prayer may even help to deter people from partaking in self-destructing behaviors. These are but a few instances of how spirituality may benefit a person’s mental health.
In conclusion, considering spirituality to be a value, allows us to incorporate it into mental health treatment. Therefore, clients are encouraged to share their values with their mental health professionals and not fear the topic of spirituality.
By: Akolla Etuge, doctoral intern.