affairs

A Spiritual RX for Healthy Mind and Body

British researchers recently confirmed what many of us already knew or suspected: A vibrant spiritual life offers older people mental and emotional health benefits.

The study — of 28 recently bereaved seniors from various Christian backgrounds — found a clear link between spiritual belief and personal well-being. Of the 28 participants, nine stated they had low or weak spiritual beliefs, 11 indicated moderate levels of belief and eight had strong beliefs.

Researchers interviewed participants on the first anniversary of their spouses' deaths, again, six months later, and also after the second anniversary of their loss. Those with strong beliefs indicated they were adjusting well, while those without some foundation of faith showed signs of depression.

Earlier studies have overwhelmingly shown a strong correlation between an active spiritual life and good physical health. More than 40 studies comprising some 125,000 participants have indicated that those with strong religious beliefs live longer. One six-year study of elderly North Carolina residents, predominantly Protestant, reported that those who prayed or read religious material daily had a much better chance of staying healthy.

Some researchers surmise that prayer and Bible study act as stress relievers, protecting the immune system and offering an emotional cushion in difficult times. The notable exception was people with religious beliefs that put a heavy emphasis on God's judgment over His love and mercy. The research indicated that guilt and fear of eternal punishment may actually damage health and increase stress.

For those of us who profess Christ as Lord and Savior, the take-away from these studies isn't simply a confirmation of the benefits of our belief in God. As we spend time with friends and family who are undergoing difficult times, we can offer them not only an eternal perspective to help them past temporal troubles, but a reminder that our health and emotional comfort can be found in our loving, heavenly Father.

Background Information

The Truth About Emotional Affairs
At work and online, crossing the line from platonic friendship to emotional infidelity happens at an alarming rate.

An All-Too-Common Affair
Why do so many people get trapped in affairs?

Danger Signs of an Affair
Though affairs are often unpredictable, there are recognizable symptoms of a troubled marriage.

Questions and Answers

My marriage seems beyond repair to me. My husband is running around with other women and threatening to divorce me. Is there really any hope for us?
Answer

Is cybersex "cheating"?
Answer

My husband has been having an affair for the past three months. Should I just throw my arms open and pretend the affair never happened?
Answer

Review Frequently Asked Questions

Stories

Reconcilable Differences
What's the secret to bringing a relationship back from the brink of divorce?

If you've been through a experience related to this topic, we invite you to share your story with others.
Share Your Story

Other Things to Consider

A Perfect Love
After a divorce, some amount of healing can occur through community support and learning to change certain behaviors. But complete healing can only come from the one who created us.

The Freedom in Forgiveness
Sometimes the comfort of holding a grudge can blind us to the relief of letting it go.

Special Situations
Even in cases of adultery, abuse and addictions, divorce isn't always the solution.

Forgiveness: What it is and What it Isn't
Understanding and granting forgiveness can help you move past the pain of divorce.

Where is God in the Midst of All My Troubles?
So many cry out to Him in times of need, but is God really listening? And, more important, does He care?

Love & SexDating, Living Together

TransitionsGetting Married

Abuse & AddictionsPornography and Cybersex, Physical and Verbal Abuse