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Public health implications of spiritual healing practice, in conditions such as depression
- Author:
- BELL Charles J.M.
- Journal article citation:
- Journal of Public Mental Health, 12(1), 2013, pp.6-9.
- Publisher:
- Emerald
This paper examines the public health implications of spiritual healing practice in mental health care for conditions such as depression. It reviews the current research into spiritual healing, and in particular its use in depression. Scientific and anecdotal evidence was considered, and areas of improvement were identified. The attitudes of physicians and patients may affect the efficacy of patient-defined spiritual healing, which is currently lacking in rigorous academic research. A better scientific understanding may aid in a cost-benefit analysis of such treatments in the future. This paper should aid those involved in public health-care planning or who practice psychotherapeutic methods to ensure they utilise all possible methods, whilst working within a rigorous evidence-based framework. (Edited publisher abstract)