Religion promotes mental health

Background: The role of religion in the promotion of patient’s mental health has been very well observed in our society and is also documented among various written evidences. This literature review aims to review research studies that have highlighted the role and the effects of religion on mental health. Method: A case was observed in the mental health setting which showed that religion has an impact on the mental health of psychiatric patients. Various literature sources from 2001 – 2012 were studied to gain the knowledge about religion and its importance in people’s life and mental health. The studied literature focused on the aasessment of role of religion and spirituality on patient’s mental health and the strategies to improve mental health by utilizing religious values. Findings: Literature revealed that people living in Pakistan more commonly seek help from religious leaders, Peers, Aamils etc. besides doctors and psychiatrists (Abidi et al., 2011). Moreover, people also offer prayers and other religious practices more often at the time of miseries. Religious coping can lead to favorable mental health outcomes which include improved mental health, reduced mental distress and life satisfaction in times of stress. Moreover it also helps people to deal with hardships and provide a sense of control over nature (Koenig, 2009). Nurses are responsible to provide information related to religious places and support groups to patients and their families (Puchalski et al., 2009). Keywords: Religion, Mental Health, Coping, Satisfactio