Religiosity, Spirituality, and Mental Health in Portugal: A call for a conceptualisation, relationship, and guidelines for integration (a theoretical review)

Abstract

Abstract:In the Portuguese research society, particularly in the mental health field, little has been done regarding religiosity, spirituality and mental health. Thus, this paper strives to stimulate the interest in this area by providing an overview of the body of research on religiosity, spirituality and mental health, highlighting the role and importance these dimensions represent in the life of many people, whether in health or mental distress and illness. A brief review of the conceptualisation of religion (religiosity) and spirituality is provided, as well as some areas of disagreement and contention. Guidelines for the integration and professional training are also included, not discarding the ethical considerations inherent in this process. Finally, reflections are offered as to why bringing religiosity and spirituality into mental health field is important, as well as some implications for clinical practice, with particular focus on Portuguese mental health system. Keywords: Religiosity; Spirituality; Mental Health; Conceptualisation; Integration; Guidelines; Ethical challenges Religiosidade, Espiritualidade e Saúde Mental: da conceptualização, à relação e às orientações para a integração (revisão teórica): Em Portugal, a investigação científica tem sido escassa no domínio do estudo da religiosidade, espiritualidade e saúde mental. Assim, este artigo propõe-se estimular o interesse pela área, fornecendo uma visão geral do corpo de investigação relativo a religiosidade, espiritualidade e saúde mental. Realça-se o papel e a importância que estas dimensões desempenham na vida de muitos indivíduos, quer estes sofram de doença ou mal-estar físico ou mental. É fornecido um resumo da conceptualização da religião (religiosidade) e espiritualidade, incluindo algumas áreas de desacordo e controvérsia. Incluem-se também orientações para a integração e formação profissional, tendo em consideração os aspectos éticos inerentes ao processo. Por fim, segue-se uma reflexão sobre a importância de integrar a religiosidade e a espiritualidade no campo da saúde mental, bem como algumas implicações para a prática clínica, com especial enfoque no sistema de saúde mental português.

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