Handbook of Religion and Health

Foreword (Linda George); Preface (Jeff Levin); Introduction; I. Background; 1. A history of religion, medicine, and health care; 2. Definitions; II. Debating religion's effects on health; 3. Religion: good or bad?; 4. Coping with stress; 5. Religion and coping; III. Research on religion and mental health; 6. Well-being; 7. Depression; 8. Suicide; 9. Anxiety; 10. Psychotic disorders; 11. Alcohol and drug use; 12. Delinquency; 13. Marital instability; 14. Personality and personality disorder; 15. Understanding religion's effects on mental health; IV. Research on religion and physical health; 16. Heart disease; 17. Hypertension; 18. Cerebrovascular disease; 19. Alzheimer's disease and dementia; 20. Immune system; 21. Endocrine system; 22. Cancer 23. Mortality 24. Physical disability 25. Pain and somatic symptoms; 26. Health behaviors; 27. Disease prevention; V. Understanding the religion-physical health relationship; 28. Psychological, social, and behavioral pathways; 29. Conclusions; Appendix. Studies on religion and health (by health outcome); References; Index

HGK: Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center; DEK: Professor of Family Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina; VBC; Associate Professor, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing

Praise for the First Edition "This book provides a fascinating look at the role of religion and the use of health services against the background of the current availability of and access to health care across all segments of society... This is an unparalleled resource not only for physicians with an interest in the relationship between religion and health but perhaps even more for those who doubt its significance. All physicians should consider the possibility that something so meaningful to a large number of patients might also be good for their health." -Journal of the American Medical Association"In addition to presenting a synopsis of the overwhelming amount of research in this area, the authors provide a thoughtful reflection and commentary that is based on their collective understanding of this research and its application. Does the book deliver on its promise? Absolutely. This is a must read for anyone interested in this field. It is well written, comprehensive, scholarly, and engaging... The authors should be commended for an extraordinary job on this soon to be classic text."--Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion"This would be an excellent addition to the library of congregations and their clergy, health educators, youth workers, and professional chaplains."--Anglican Theological Review"I encourage anyone concerned with faith and health, to get this book."--Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health"Not only researchers, but all concerned about health, should be grateful for the wealth of information this volume provides to support better research in the future."--Second Opinion