Spirituality/religion and anxiety, stress, and health

Anxiety refers to a distressing and unpleasant feeling of fear or nervousness, which can affect individuals' ability to function and their quality of life. Stress exists when an individual considers his or her environment or situation burdensome and beyond his or her resources. Stress differs from anxiety, but stress can result in anxiety if an individual cannot deal effectively with the stressor. Anxiety and stress are linked to a sense of hopelessness among individuals who experience them. However, anxiety also impels individuals to make changes in their lives so that these disturbing feelings can be relieved or eliminated. Spirituality is intrinsically connected to organized religion, the mystical, and the supernatural. However, it extends beyond religion. Spirituality refers to a multidimensional, and often complex, component of the human experience. It usually comprises three facets: (1) cognitive and philosophic, (2) experiential and emotional, and (3) behavioral. Within the cognitive and philosophic facets of spirituality, individuals search for meaning, purpose, and truth in life, as well as beliefs and values by which they wish to live their lives. The experiential and emotional components embrace feelings of love, connection, hope, support, comfort, and inner peace. The behavioral aspects include the ways in which individuals exhibit their inner spiritual state and spiritual beliefs. This entry discusses the role of spirituality and religion in managing stress and anxiety, as well as their contribution to health.