A new report by the Sutherland Institute, the fourth volume in a series called "Social Benefits of Religion," explores the contributions of religious faith and involvement to mental health. The report, titled "Religious Contributions to Mental Health," finds that active participation in religious activities offers greater mental health benefits than simply holding religious beliefs. This study addresses the importance of faith practices in a time when religious attendance is declining and seeks to counter criticisms suggesting that churches can be harmful to mental health.

The report highlights a mental health crisis in the U.S., noting that even before the pandemic, mental health was the “leading cause of disability and poor life outcomes in young people.” Statistics show that a significant percentage of high school students have experienced persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness, with many seriously considering suicide. These issues extend beyond youth, as many U.S. adults also experience symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Religious participation provides a hedge against loneliness, which is known to increase the risk of various health issues, including early death and mental disorders. Participating in religious activities fosters a sense of belonging and reduces social isolation. Studies indicate that individuals who consider religion very important in their lives are more likely to feel a sense of community compared to those who are not religious. The social aspect of religious practice is particularly essential, as participation appears more beneficial than mere affiliation.

The report also notes that embracing religion is associated with a greater sense of well-being. Data from Pew Research Center reveals that actively religious individuals are more likely to describe themselves as “very happy” compared to those who are inactively religious or unaffiliated. Research also suggests that religious or spiritual individuals are more likely to report flourishing. During the pandemic, young adults who turned to religion for strength and counseling demonstrated improved emotional regulation and mental well-being.

Countering the notion that religion exacerbates toxic perfectionism, the report finds that both religious association and faith in God are linked with lower levels of toxic perfectionism compared to having no religion. Studies indicate that religious individuals exhibit lower toxic perfectionism than atheists, agnostics, and former members of certain faiths.

Religion and religious participation are considered protective against depression, with studies showing that those with more severe depression benefit more from religiosity. Involvement with religion appears to be more helpful than cognitive behavioral therapy for severe depression. While the effect of religion on other mental illnesses is less clear, some research suggests that religious beliefs can be helpful, though findings may vary depending on whether religious thoughts are positive or negative.

The report emphasizes that participation is more protective than mere affiliation or personal spirituality when it comes to anxiety disorders. International studies suggest that high levels of spirituality or religiosity may be helpful for those with bipolar or post-traumatic stress disorders. Religious support is positively associated with recovery in cases of severe mental illness. Studies also indicate that religious attendance is linked to a reduced risk of suicide.

Clergy often play a crucial role in connecting individuals with mental health challenges to helpful resources. Congregants seek help from them, and clergy can identify and respond to a person’s distress. Religious leaders are increasingly taking efforts to address mental health seriously and guide individuals to appropriate care.

The report acknowledges that not all ecclesiastical leaders have been trained to address mental health issues but emphasizes their capacity to encourage and connect members to professional help. Religion’s role in improving mental health has broader community benefits, fostering role models and reducing lost productivity and chronic health conditions.

The report concludes by advocating for professional training that is sensitive to religious concerns and ensuring that accreditors accommodate decisions based on the religious missions of colleges and universities. This is to avoid harming overall well-being.

In other health-related news, National Brothers Day is celebrated annually on May 24th, emphasizing the importance of brothers' health. Essential health checks include liver function tests, testicular exams, prostate-specific antigen tests, kidney function tests, and cholesterol tests. These screenings help detect issues such as liver damage, testicular cancer, prostate cancer, kidney problems, and high cholesterol, all of which are critical for early prevention and management. Consulting a healthcare professional for personalized suggestions is advisable.