A long-term analysis in Psychological Science questions the widely held belief that going to religious services reliably improves mental health. The study tracked nearly two decades of data from the British Household Panel Survey and found no clear link between frequent religious attendance and better mental well-being. In some cases, higher participation correlated with slightly worse mental health in following years.
Historically, many studies have suggested that religious involvement reduces depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. The proposed benefits are often attributed to social support, a sense of belonging, and coping strategies like hope and meaning-making offered by faith communities. However, new findings based on responses from over 29,000 British adults between 1991 and 2009 indicate the relationship may be more nuanced than previously thought. Researchers examined both within-person changes over time and comparisons between people with different levels of attendance to understand the true dynamics.
Key takeaway: there is no robust evidence that higher attendance leads to lasting mental health improvements. In some years, more frequent attendance preceded slightly worse outcomes. Notably, some participants who later experienced poorer mental health increased their attendance, suggesting that people may turn to religion in times of distress rather than religion causing the distress to worsen or improve.
Experts caution against assuming universal benefits from religious participation. Context matters: voluntary, meaningful religious involvement can differ greatly from participation shaped by social expectations, which may be stressful or stigmatizing. In Asia, researchers have noted that in societies where attendance is closely tied to community norms, protective mental health effects may be weaker or even negative. In Thailand, where merit-making, temple festivals, and meditation are integral to daily life, religious activities often function as communal occasions, yet experiences vary widely—especially among youth and minority groups.
Thai psychologists emphasize that religion can offer comfort and belonging but is not a substitute for comprehensive mental health care or social support. The Ministry of Public Health has recently encouraged people to seek diverse resources—family, friends, counseling—rather than relying solely on religious practice for mental distress.
Thailand’s long-standing integration of religion and community life dates back to historic temple schools and merit-making traditions. While these practices strengthen social cohesion, experts warn against viewing them as a cure for modern mental health challenges.
Looking forward, the study suggests a more nuanced approach to mental health promotion in Thailand and other deeply religious societies. If attendance alone isn’t a reliable shield, policymakers should emphasize comprehensive mental health education, stigma reduction, accessible therapy, and community support programs. Collaboration with religious leaders can help destigmatize mental illness and encourage help-seeking within trusted community networks.
For Thai readers, the message is clear: religious activities can enrich life and foster social connection, but they are not a substitute for professional mental health care. Individuals facing anxiety or depression should seek a range of supports. Communities and religious institutions play a valuable role in awareness and support, while recognizing the limits of tradition in addressing complex mental health needs.
Practical steps for Thailand include balanced involvement in religious activities, open conversations about mental health within families and faith communities, and utilization of government and NGO mental health resources when needed. Local authorities should expand accessible counseling services and educational campaigns that respect cultural traditions without relying on them alone.
This British study opens the door for parallel research in Thailand to understand how local religious practices intersect with contemporary mental health, particularly among youth, elders, and at-risk groups. Culturally tailored policies and programs can emerge from careful, context-aware analysis.
In summary, while faith communities unquestionably provide social support and a sense of belonging, they are not a universal preventive measure for mental health challenges. Individuals should access a broad spectrum of supports to maintain well-being.