The role of spirituality
in combatting depression, suicidiality and substance abuse
Today I was listening to Mel Robbins’ podcast with Dr. Lisa Miller, a Columbia University professor.
She said that—according to science —our brains are hard-wired for spirituality. She contends that it is our birth right.
This may not necessarily be religion, but a belief in an energy or life force, a source, beyond yourself.
If we are tapped into that—in some way or shape or form—then our brains are healthier - thicker.
But apparently it also the best antidote we have to depression, addiction rates/substance abuse, and likelihood to attempt or complete suicide.
(Which of course doesn’t mean to say that it’s fool-proof or avoidable to avoid any of the above if you do have some degree of faith and spirituality) but it is a good protector.
It makes me think about the statement that we are not human beings having a spiritual journey, but we are spiritual beings having a human experience.
I will say that in my own journey - of alcoholism, sobriety, and doing my best to address my own mental illness and mental health and trauma and depression - my faith in God (my form of spirituality - it doesn’t have to be yours) is one of the powerful tools to help in my survival and how I journey forward along this path.
