Training of health care professionals on existential and religious issues

The results of my recently published dissertation show that an increased awareness and knowledge about existential and religious questions are needed within health care. Religion and faith can give strength and be a positive resource when it comes to health and well-being, but under certain circumstances religion and religious communities may have a negative effect on mental health. Likewise, religious disaffiliation, leaving a religious community, may lead to a life crisis that is difficult to endure.
Training and education for health professionals is essential, as knowledge increases understanding and competence. The results of my dissertation show that health professionals express a need for training in topics related to religious and existential issues. Training could involve the following topics:
• Clients with different religious backgrounds and affiliations in health care
• Information on how to bring up and deal with religious questions
• Reflection over one’s own position in regard to existential and religious issues
The results of the dissertation show that training and more knowledge are needed to decrease the fear to discuss religious matters that some health professionals may have. There is also a need for health professionals who are specialized in religious and existential subjects and have special competence when it comes to encountering clients who experience challenges because of their religion or religious affiliation. In order to promote clients’ mental health, further research is needed on care recommendations and practical tools that health professionals can use in their work with clients in this context.