Many people face discrimination based on their social identities such as race, gender identity, class, disability status, etc. In addition to this, they may experience multiple forms of oppression that can lead them towards mental health problems like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and suicidal ideation. Spiritual practices have been used throughout history to promote healing from these traumas and build emotional resilience. This article explores how spiritual practices mediate emotional regulation and resilience for marginalized populations through research studies.
Research Evidence
A study published in 2019 examined the effectiveness of meditation and mindfulness practice in reducing stress among African Americans. The participants were recruited from an inner-city community in Chicago, Illinois, and were asked to participate in a 6-week program that included meditation sessions once a week. At the end of the program, the participants reported feeling less stressed and more positive about life. Another study conducted in 2020 found that yoga practice had positive effects on the psychological wellbeing of transgender individuals who experienced discrimination. Transgender individuals who participated in regular yoga classes reported lower levels of stress, anxiety, and depression than those who did not. These findings suggest that spiritual practices like yoga and meditation can help alleviate the negative impacts of systemic oppression on mental health.
How do spiritual practices mediate emotional regulation?
Spiritual practices can help people with their emotional regulation by providing a space for reflection and introspection. Meditation and other contemplative practices allow individuals to become aware of their thoughts and feelings without judgment. Through this process, they can learn to accept themselves and identify unhelpful patterns of thinking that contribute to distress.
One study found that mindfulness meditation helped reduce symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among Black women who had experienced sexual violence. These women learned to observe their thoughts and feelings without reacting negatively, which led to improved self-regulation skills.
Spirituality and resilience building
In addition to promoting emotional regulation, spiritual practices have been shown to build resilience among marginalized populations. A 2017 study examined the relationship between spiritual beliefs and resilience among gay men living with HIV/AIDS. The researchers found that individuals who had a strong sense of spirituality were more likely to report greater life satisfaction and wellbeing despite experiencing challenges related to their illness. Another study conducted in 2018 found that religious involvement was associated with lower levels of suicidal ideation among transgender individuals. These results suggest that spiritual beliefs may provide a source of strength and support during difficult times.
Spiritual practices like meditation, yoga, and prayer can be effective tools for managing mental health problems among marginalized communities. By promoting emotional regulation and resilience, these practices can help people cope with the negative impacts of oppression and discrimination on their lives. More research is needed to understand how different types of spiritual practices affect emotional regulation and resilience in various populations.