Introduction
This post highlights three recent trends at the intersection of spirituality and mental health, emphasizing the need for faith communities to offer healing, meaning-making, and resilience-building in challenging times.
Trend 1: Digital Methods for Spiritual and Mental Health
Recent research indicates a growing interest in digital interventions that address both spiritual and mental health needs, particularly among Generation Z (born between 1995 and 2012).1
- A 2024 scoping review found that digital methods, such as mobile apps and text messaging, show promise in addressing the spiritual and mental health of Gen Z.1
- Gen Z individuals are more likely to engage in spiritual practices than religious ones, with spirituality being associated with positive mental health outcomes.1
Implication: Faith communities should consider incorporating digital tools and platforms to reach and support younger generations in their spiritual and mental health journeys.
Trend 2: Increased Focus on Mental Health in New Year’s Resolutions
Recent data shows a growing emphasis on mental health in personal goal-setting:
- As of 2025, 33% of Americans are making mental health-related New Year’s resolutions, a 5% increase from the previous year.3
- Younger people (48% of 18-34-year-olds) are more likely to make mental health resolutions compared to older adults (13% of those 65 or older).3
Popular mental health resolutions include:
- Exercising more (63%)
- Meditation (44%)
- Spending time in nature (46%)
- Focusing on spirituality (37%)
- Seeing a therapist (31%)3
Implication: W.I.S.E. aligns well with this trend.2
Trend 3: Worldview as a Key Factor in Mental Health
New research suggests that an individual’s worldview may play a crucial role in mental health outcomes:
- A 2024 study found that adults with a biblical worldview are significantly less likely to experience mental health struggles.5
- These individuals tend to enjoy more fulfilling relationships, a clearer sense of purpose, and greater resilience in the face of life’s challenges.5
Implication: Faith communities can emphasize the importance of exploring metanarratives in the context of promoting mental health and resilience.
Conclusion
These trends highlight the evolving landscape of spirituality and mental health, particularly among younger generations. Faith communities have an opportunity to adapt their approaches, incorporating digital methods, supporting mental health goals, and emphasizing the role of worldview in overall well-being.
Recommendations for Congregational Responses
- Develop digital resources: Create or curate mobile apps and online content that integrate spiritual practices with mental health support.
- Offer mental health-focused programs: Organize workshops, support groups, or retreats that address popular mental health resolutions (e.g., meditation classes, nature walks, spiritual counseling).
- Promote worldview discussions: Facilitate conversations and study groups that explore the connection between faith, worldview, and mental health resilience.
- Collaborate with mental health professionals: Partner with local therapists or counselors to provide spiritually-informed mental health resources to congregants.
- Train leaders in digital ministry: Equip clergy and lay leaders with skills to effectively use digital platforms for spiritual and mental health support.
By implementing these recommendations, faith communities can better serve the evolving spiritual and mental health needs of their congregants, particularly younger generations.
Citations
- Susanna Y Park, Bridgette Do, Jacqlyn Yourell, Janice Hermer, and Jennifer Huberty, “Digital Methods for the Spiritual and Mental Health of Generation Z: Scoping Review,” Interactive Journal of Medical Research 13 (June 2, 2024).
- Adam Blehm, “Disharmony of the Soul: A Philosophical Analysis of Psychological Trauma and Flourishing,” University of Arkansas, Fayetteville Graduate Theses and Dissertations, December 2022.
- “More Americans Making New Year’s Mental Health Resolutions Leading Into 2025,” American Psychiatric Association, December 18, 2024.
- “Peace Officer Psychological Screening Manual,” California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training, February 2024.
- “New Research Suggests Worldview May Be Key to America’s Mental Health Crisis,” Cultural Research Center at Arizona Christian University, September 24, 2024.
- Racial and Identity Profiling Advisory Board, “Annual Report 2024,” State of California Department of Justice: Office of the Attorney General, January 1, 2024.
- “A Mind Reading for 2025: Our Mental Health Forecast,” Verywell Mind, January 27, 2025.
- U.S. Congress. House. Armed Services. National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024. 118th Congress (2023-2024), December 22, 2023. HR2670.