What science tells about about religious practice

There has been a growing volume of scientific research into the role of religious belief and practice in the areas of mental health and social science. The weight of evidence so far is that being actively engaged in religious participation is both physically and psychologically beneficial for individuals, and also carries a range of social benefits. The beneficial effects of religious practice don’t hold true for all people, not by any means. There are plenty of exceptions. But what the studies to date show is that, on average, religious practice does have numerous important benefits.

Benefits for those who practice a religious faith:

On average, those who practice religion
›   Live longer
›   Have lower levels of depressive illness
›   Have lower rates of relationship breakdown
›   Are less likely to be involved in crime
›   Cope better with serious illness
›   Recover faster from the death of a loved one
›   Are less likely to suffer marital breakdown

Research in this area

This research has been further bolstered by some pioneering work by Professor Patricia Casey’s recent report PSYCHO-SOCIAL BENEFITS OF RELIGIOUS PRACTISE.

Her work illustrates how religious belief can enhance wellbeing. The full report can be downloaded here.