The understanding of spirituality among Muslim patients with depression

Introduction: The mainstay of treatment of depression and trauma-related psychological problems relies on pharmacological and psychological treatments. On top of that, evidences also recognize the vital role of spirituality for human wellness which leads to growing interest on its utilization to treat depression. However, research on spirituality among Muslims in relation to depression is relatively scarce. The aim of this study is to explore Muslim patients’ understanding of spirituality and factors influencing their preference to spiritual treatment to complement modern treatment. Methods: This is a qualitative study conducted on depressed Muslim patients at the UKM Medical Centre. Purposive sampling was done to ensure diversity of subjects. In-depth interviews were conducted using semi-structured questionnaire guideline. The data were transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic approach. Result: We found that spirituality is deeply ingrained among Muslim patients regardless of their religiosity background. Despite medical treatment, majority of the patients reported using spirituality formally or informally to relieve their depressive symptoms. Previous benefit to spiritual treatment and attribution of illness were the important elements identified influencing their preference towards spiritual treatment. Conclusion: There is an unmet spiritual need among depressed Muslim patients, which gives an opportunity to incorporate spiritual approaches in the treatment of depression. However, more studies are needed to demonstrate its scientific basis and to design an effective psycho-spiritual treatment modality so that the ‘holistic’ or ‘bio-psychosocial-spiritual’ treatment can be integrated by health care professionals to those in needs