‘I can’t pray’ – The spiritual needs of Malaysian Muslim patients suffering from depression
- Author:
Ahmad Nabil MR
- Publication Type:Original Article
- Keywords:
Spirituality, Depression, Muslim, Qualitative study, Unmet need
- From:
The International Medical Journal Malaysia
2016;15(1):103-109
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
The mainstay of treatment of depression relies on pharmacological and psychological
treatments. On top of that, evidence also recognizes the vital role of spirituality for human wellness which
leads to growing interest in its utilization to treat depression. However, research on spirituality among
Muslims in relation to depression is relatively scarce. The aim of this study is to explore the understanding of
spirituality among Muslim patients with depression, and to explore their spiritual needs. Methods: This is a
qualitative study conducted on 10 depressed Muslim patients at the UKM Medical Centre. Purposive sampling
was done to ensure diversity of subjects. Individual in-depth interviews were conducted using semistructured
questionnaire guidelines. The data were transcribed verbatim and analysed using a thematic
approach. Result: Out of 10 patients, almost all of them expressed spiritual needs. Two major themes
emerged in relation to the spiritual needs which are (i) religious needs; need for worship, religious
knowledge and guidance, religious reminders, and (ii) existential needs; need for calmness, sensitivity and
empathy, self-discipline, certainty, hope , physical help, ventilate and meaning of illness. These needs are
essential for patients during the time of crisis. Conclusion: The majority of patients expressed spiritual
needs which are required during the process of recovery and this provides an opportunity to incorporate
spiritual approaches in the treatment of depression. However, more studies are needed to demonstrate its
scientific basis and to design an effective psycho-spiritual treatment modality so that the ‘holistic’ or ‘biopsychosocial-spiritual’
treatment can be integrated by health care professionals to those in need.