Spirituality has been shown to be helpful in the reduction of smoking, drugs and alcohol use. Spiritual people also have more positive relationships. People with spiritual beliefs volunteer more and are more likely to forgive as well. Spiritual people have also been shown to be able to better cope with stressful life situations.
Spirituality helps people realize they are not in control of the world, which helps them to better cope with those stressful events in life better because they do not worry about those events as much. It also reduces their likelihood of becoming depressed because they know something bigger than themselves is in control.
How does this work? Well, religious people have a built in support system, which aids in increasing pleasurable activities and happiness. Not only are the getting support from others, but they are providing support for others as well, which gives them a sense of purpose.
Religion also provides people with rules. I know, the dreaded "R" word "Rules". Really if we think about it, we all want rules and like rules because it protects us and provides us with safety. When we follow the rules it allows our lives to be healthy and it also gives us a sense of accomplishment.
Furthermore, religion gives us hope. Hope relieves stress and allows us to cope better with stressful situations.
So, if you aren't involved in any religious activities or group, I would encourage you to do so, especially if you are already feeling stressed. It may just help you reduce your stress and provide you with a community filled with hope.
