Spirituality for Cancer Survivors

For some people, religion and spirituality may be two distinct concepts. A cancer survivor might think of himself or herself as religious, spiritual, both, or neither. Often times, religious and spiritual beliefs are important coping mechanism for cancer survivors.

Several studies have revealed the benefits of religion and spirituality to individuals experiencing cancer. According to the National Cancer Institute, some benefits may include decreased anxiety, reduced isolation, limited drug or alcohol intake, and improvements in overall wellbeing.

However, spirituality and religion might also cause distress. In some cultures, a cancer diagnosis can be viewed as a punishment or seen as the result of one’s wrongdoing.

Since religion and spirituality can mean different things for different people, it is important to remember all of these perspectives when discussing the concepts among cancer survivors, families, and friends.

National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) Finding Comfort in Spirituality

The Role of Spirituality after Cancer Treatment (Dana Farber Cancer Institute)

Religion, spirtuality, and health outcomes in cancer

A meta-analytic approach to examine the relationship between religion/spirtuality and mental health in cancer

Religion/spirtuality and health in the context of cancer

Religion, spirtuality, and physical health in cancer patients

A meta-analytic review of religious or spirtiual involvement and social health among cancer patients

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