Introduction
The study of faith and its influence on mental and physical health is an interdisciplinary field that brings together theologians and neuroscientists. This article aims to explore how faith impacts mental health and brain function by comparing the experiences of religious and atheist individuals. The investigation was carried out through a comprehensive literature review in the SciELO, PubMed, Science Direct and PsycINFO databases.
The Influence of Faith on Mental Health
Faith has been the subject of study since the 1980s, with evidence pointing to its positive influence on mental and physical health. According to the World Health Organization, faith can help in the treatment of pathologies such as depression and anxiety, and can even prevent suicide (Rodrigues, 2022). Studies show that regular religious practice can help with emotional regulation and improve social interaction, as observed in schizophrenic patients who reported significant improvements after three years of religious practices (Pargament, 2013).
Andrew Newberg, in his book “How God Changes Your Brain,” suggests that faith can alter neural circuits, with neuroimaging studies showing changes in frontal and parietal lobe activity during intense prayer practices (Newberg, 2009). These findings indicate that faith and religious practice can promote states of calm and concentration, contributing to the mental health of practitioners.
Neuroscience and Faith
The research by Newberg et al. (2015) used single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) to evaluate brain activity during Islamic prayer, revealing decreased activity in the frontal and parietal lobes. These areas are crucial for intentional behavior and sensory perception, suggesting that prayer can induce a state of tranquility and self-awareness.
Another study, conducted by Doufesh et al. (2012), analyzed the difference in the power spectral density (PSD) of the Alpha frequency during the Dhuha prayer, a voluntary practice of Muslims. The results showed a significant increase in the Alpha signal during the prostration position, correlating this practice with relaxed states of mind and reduced tension.
Faith and Atheism
While faith may have clear benefits for some, a lack of belief also has its implications. A recent study evaluated the relationship between trauma symptoms, coping, and psychological distress during the COVID-19 pandemic in atheist and religious individuals, finding few significant differences between the two groups (Abbott, 2021). This suggests that while faith can be a powerful tool for some, atheists can find other ways of coping and well-being.
Religion can exert a powerful influence on human behavior, including the prevention of suicide, considered a great sin in many faiths. However, studies indicate that both religious and atheist individuals can commit suicide when faced with serious illnesses, showing that faith is not a single determining factor (Alonzo, 2021).
Final Considerations
Faith has a significant impact on mental health and brain function, providing emotional and neurological benefits for many individuals. However, these benefits are not universal and vary depending on individual belief and practice. Faith can be a powerful tool for improving mental health, but it is not a one-size-fits-all solution.
Reference:
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ALMEIDA, MA, KOENIG, HG, LUCCHETTI, G. Clinical implications of spirituality to mental health: review of evidence and practical guidelines. Brazilian Journal of Psychiatry, 36:176-182, 2014. DOI: 10.1590/1516-4446-2013-1255.
ALONZO, D., Gearing, RE Suicide Across Buddhism, American Indian-Alaskan Native, and African Traditional Religions, Atheism and Agnosticism: An Updated Systematic Review. J Relig Health. 60(4):2527-2546, 2021. DOI: 10.1007/s10943-021-01202-z.
DOUFESH, H., Faisal, T., Lim, KS, Ibrahim, F. EEG spectral analysis on Muslim prayers. Applied psychophysiology and biofeedback, 37(1):11-18, 2012. DOI: 10.1007/s10484-011-9170-1.
NEWBERG, AB, Wintering, NA, Yaden, DB Waldman, MR A case series study of the neurophysiological effects of altered states of mind during intense Islamic prayer. J. Physiol. 109(4), 2015. DOI: 10.1016/j.jphysparis.2015.08.001.
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