Spirituality and Mental Health
May 26th, 2009 -- by colleenI grew up in a family that was pretty liberal. I was taught to love and celebrate ALL people- no matter age, race, SES, sexuality, disability, or religious preference. My father is Buddhist and mother was raised a liberal Greek Orthodox. This left me with the ability to choose and discover my own religious preference. This was a good thing because I was able to come to terms with a decision of faith on my own but hard because I did not have a lot of guidance. Fast forward, 29 years and it is the Christian faith with which I identify most. The teachings of Christ and prayer have been a lifeline for me and propelled me into a desire to serve others. I do not, however, believe that the Christian faith is the only way to salvation. I do think that belief in SOMETHING is a pretty important way to live life and can be relied on to cope. Whether that belief is in Jesus, God, Allah, Mother Nature, or the importance of a social movement; faith gives us purpose. In my opinion, having purpose, understanding one’s purpose, and practicing one’s purpose is at the center of mental wellness. The article below challenges us to integrate faith into the practice of therapeutic intervention. Agree or disagree with the author’s pre-suppositions that this might enhance healing…
Colleen Coffey
