Depression and Spirituality - a Qualitative Approach

Aim

This study aimed to give an opportunity to those who have experienced spirituality and depression to voice their experiences of spirituality and depression.

Background

Depression has spiritual dimension, spirituality helps people to cope with depression. Qualitative grounded theory approach found that spirituality was linked to participant's experiences of depression as both a cause and a cure. Survey of literature revealed that very little qualitative research was done in this area. It seems evident that there is a need for qualitative research that allows persons to voice there experiences of their spirituality and depression in Indian context.

Method

Qualitative research approach was used. Eight depressive patients were interviewed and data was analyzed using qualitative descriptive approach.

Findings

• All the participants stated that spiritual activities help them to control negative thoughts, tension and fear. Participants also hoped that surely God will help them to come out from this depression.

• Participants stated that because of depressive feelings they are unable to perform ritual activities.

• Commonly practiced spiritual activities are praying, reading religious books, attending bhajans, wearing charmulet and performing poojas.

• Common organizations which are helping participants are ashramas, temple, and church.

• All the participants stated that medicine and spirituality both should be incorporated to decrease depressive feelings.

Conclusion

Awareness of patient's spiritual needs gives psychiatric nurses important information for planning spiritual intervention.