Spiritual resources and struggles in coping with medical illness.

摘要

Faced with medical illness, many people turn first to their faith for hope, comfort, strength, meaning, a sense of control, social support, and spiritual support. However, for a smaller but significant number of people, medical illnesses can signal the onset of a spiritual struggle that may presage declines in physical and mental health. In this paper, we describe how spirituality represents both a potent resource and a source of struggle for people coping with medical illness. We conclude with some practical suggestions for medical clinicians interested in addressing spirituality with their patients.