From Canon John Foskett
Sir, - I was fascinated to read your report "Neuroses of
'spiritual' people surveyed" (
News, 25 January). The research reaches very interesting and
important conclusions both for those who have mental illnesses in
which religion and/or spirituality play a big part, and for those
of us who care for them and wish to support them in their
religious/spiritual practice and beliefs.
In a study in Somerset in 2000, we explored the relationship
between mental health, spirituality, and religion (Taken
Seriously: The Somerset spirituality project, 2002). We found
that for many of those we interviewed, their mental-health
problems, though painful and traumatising, actually contributed to
their religious and spiritual growth and development, or so they
believed. Some were helped by being a part of a religious or
spiritual group and having their beliefs, however extraordinary,
accepted and understood.
Others who met with incomprehension and rejection by either
psychiatric or religious professionals felt more traumatised and
alone with their feelings and beliefs. They did not regret the
experience, terrible as it often was, however, because they felt
that their beliefs were important and fruitful to them.
The research at University College seems to confirm the greater
dis-ease among those whose spirituality is held more individually
and less corporately. "Another possible explanation for our
find-ing concerning people with a spiritual life view is that they
are caught up in an existential search that is driven by their
emotional distress."
It was our conclusion that such people especially benefit from
an understanding and acceptance of their beliefs by those caring
for them. However uncertain we may feel about their experiences,
they need to be acknowledged; not ignored, pathologised, or
demonised.
JOHN FOSKETT
Adviser in religion and spirituality
to Somerset Partnership NHS
Foundation Trust
8 Cornwall Road
Dorchester DTI 1RT