The Necessity of Teaching Spirituality in Universities of Medical Sciences Publisher



Mosadeghrad AM¹ Show Affiliations
Source: Payesh Published:2023

Abstract

The spirituality makes a person understand the meaning and purpose of his/her life and achieve satisfaction and happiness. Spirituality causes more harmony between physical, mental and social dimensions of health and increases the adaptability of a person to the surrounding world, improves his attitude towards the world, and reduces negative emotions and tensions. The medical education system is responsible for training medical sciences’ students and preparing them to work in the health system and should consider education and training students in spirituality. The institutionalization of spirituality in the medical education primarily leads to the improvement of health and the reduction of students' anxiety and depression. There are also positive correlation between spirituality and mental health, quality of life, satisfaction and commitment of healthcare workers. Also, studies proved the positive role of spirituality in increasing hope, improving quality of life and reducing depression and stress of patients. Therefore, the concepts, principles and techniques of strengthening spirituality should be taught to medical students (knowledge), so that they gain sufficient motivation for spiritual care of themselves and others (attitude) and by applying these knowledge and skills meet the spiritual needs of patients (performance). © 2023, Iranian Institute for Health Sciences Research. All rights reserved.