Cognitive-Behavioural Psychotherapy and Integration between the Dimensions of Spirituality and Religiosity in the Treatment of Depression A Literature Review

The relationship between spirituality and religiosity and the psycho-physical well-being of individuals represents an emblematic area of interest. Several studies show how spirituality and religiosity and psycho-physical well-being are related to mental health, in particular to depressive symptoms. From a clinical perspective, these dimensions are operationalised in «spiritual and religious coping», a complex and multidimensional series of strategies that are activated when patients draw on their faith to cope with harmful events. Data show a lack of clarity of the clinical adaptation of spirituality and religiosity, through cognitive-behavioural protocols. Therefore, the aim of this review is to analyse the current cognitive-behavioural psychotherapy protocols, which integrate patients’ spiritual and religious beliefs. The research was conducted using the following search engines: «PubMed», «Scopus» and «PsycInfo». Results show a protective effect of spiritual and religious dimensions on depressive psychopathology and depressive symptoms in comorbidities. The protocol demonstrates the moderate efficacy of cognitive-behavioural therapy, associated with spiritual and religious dimensions by analysing and modifying irrational or dysfunctional beliefs in depressive symptoms. Evidence shows the value of spirituality and religiosity in determining a protective effect on mental health and the possibility of effectively integrating spiritual dimensions into cognitive-behavioural psychotherapy.