2026 Undergraduate Research Showcase

Healing Beyond Medicine: The Impact of Spirituality on Health

Document Type

Student Presentation

Presentation Date

4-24-2026

Faculty Sponsor

Nichole Lasich

Abstract

Spirituality is recognized as an important social determinant of health, influencing how individuals understand illness, cope with stress, and make healthcare decisions. This poster aims to explore the role spirituality plays in physical, mental, and social well-being by examining existing research across public health, psychology, and healthcare practice. According to Delagran (n.d.), spirituality includes a sense of connection to something bigger than ourselves and a search for meaning in life. Studies suggest spiritual beliefs and practices are associated with lower levels of anxiety and depression, improved coping during chronic illness, greater social support, and, in some cases, improved health outcomes. This poster will analyze both the protective and potentially harmful dimensions of spirituality in health and discusses the impact on patient-centered care. Understanding spirituality’s role in health can help healthcare providers deliver more holistic and culturally responsive care while recognizing the diverse ways individuals construct meaning in times of illness and wellness.

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