Is Faith Delusion?
Why Religion is Good For Your Health
by Andrew Sims
GoodBookStall Review:
This book is a much needed and welcome '...popular account of the psychiatric dimensions of religion [and] of belief in God' (p. ix). Too often, a patient's spirituality is not accorded the respect or place it holds in their lives (as this reviewer knows in his role as a Chaplain to two Forensic Psychiatric Clinics). All patients and staff in our psychiatric hospitals, besides the general reader, will gain much from Professor Sims' observations and suggestions, and confidence from his assertions that 'there is substantial evidence that religion is highly beneficial for all areas of health, and especially mental health. Prayer has a positive effect upon the outcome of mental illness in the vast majority of cases.' (p. 116).
Among the topics he examines are the history of the relationship between psychiatry and religion, 'Delusion is a Psychiatric Term' (chapter 6), working with patients with a religious belief (applicable to many Faiths), and demon possession. The final chapter brings his argument together in an effective question and answer format. There are minimal footnotes and an index. His material is well laid out, and he writes in an attractive and straightforward manner.
This is an excellent addition to psychiatric literature, and, it is hoped, will encourage a greater understanding and appreciation of faith in the treatment of patients.
Reviewer: J.Nicholas Latham (12/06/09)
This book is a much needed and welcome '...popular account of the psychiatric dimensions of religion [and] of belief in God' (p. ix). Too often, a patient's spirituality is not accorded the respect or place it holds in their lives (as this reviewer knows in his role as a Chaplain to two Forensic Psychiatric Clinics). All patients and staff in our psychiatric hospitals, besides the general reader, will gain much from Professor Sims' observations and suggestions, and confidence from his assertions that 'there is substantial evidence that religion is highly beneficial for all areas of health, and especially mental health. Prayer has a positive effect upon the outcome of mental illness in the vast majority of cases.' (p. 116).
Among the topics he examines are the history of the relationship between psychiatry and religion, 'Delusion is a Psychiatric Term' (chapter 6), working with patients with a religious belief (applicable to many Faiths), and demon possession. The final chapter brings his argument together in an effective question and answer format. There are minimal footnotes and an index. His material is well laid out, and he writes in an attractive and straightforward manner.
This is an excellent addition to psychiatric literature, and, it is hoped, will encourage a greater understanding and appreciation of faith in the treatment of patients.
Reviewer: J.Nicholas Latham (12/06/09)
