Religious and Spiritual Issues in DSM-5: Matters of the Mind and Searching of the Soul

Abstract

Religion, spirituality, and psychiatric illnesses share a complex relationship in the realm of diagnosis. Historically, however, these three constructs have existed in a very peripheral place in the diagnostic taxonomy for psychiatry in the United States. Given the important role that spirituality and religion play for many people in the experiences of coping with health and illness, it seems odd that such important elements are in the margins of the powerful and commanding nosology of the DSM. Explanations for understanding the glaring absence are complex and impacted by some very powerful political and sociological forces, including contributory elements from within the mental health disciplines. This article invites the reader to explore salient issues in the emergence of a broader recognition of religion, spirituality and psychiatric diagnosis in the DSM-5.