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Integrating Spirituality as a Dimension of Practice

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Advanced Practice in Mental Health Nursing

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Abstract

The spirituality of those experiencing mental health problems has long been neglected, while studies show that this is important and relevant for this group of clients. This chapter explores spirituality from various perspectives and reviews the evidence for integrating spirituality as a dimension of the APMHN (advanced practice mental health nurse) role. It explores how the unique perspective of APMHNs can support and enable clients to engage with the meaning and purpose dimensions of their lives. It argues that spirituality not only affords individuals resilience but additionally offers a fresh take on mental health services. Suggestions for re-engaging communities in supporting mental well-being are made. Some broader philosophical reflections lead into the conclusions.

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Notes

  1. 1.

    All names have been anonymised, but the following accounts are otherwise authentic.

  2. 2.

    This is not to suggest unquestioning acceptance.

  3. 3.

    Inevitably, clustering best serves those nearest to the focus of the cluster and offers inferior service to those on the periphery.

  4. 4.

    In 1971, Zimbardo simulated the experience of becoming a prisoner or guard. Within days, the ‘guards’ started mistreating the ‘prisoners’.

  5. 5.

    This would be the case for someone describing themselves as ‘spiritual but not religious’. Groups like the British Humanist Association may provide valuable points of reference.

  6. 6.

    The Big Issue is a magazine sold by homeless people in the UK to earn a livelihood.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. St Padarn’s Institute, University of Cardiff, Cardiff, UK

    Julian Raffay

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  1. Julian Raffay
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Correspondence to Julian Raffay .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. School of Nursing and Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland

    Agnes Higgins

  2. School of Social Services and Health Care, Tampere University of Applied Sciences, Tampere, Finland

    Nina Kilkku

  3. School of Health Sciences, University of Akureyri, Akureyri, Iceland

    Gisli Kort Kristofersson

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Raffay, J. (2022). Integrating Spirituality as a Dimension of Practice. In: Higgins, A., Kilkku, N., Kort Kristofersson, G. (eds) Advanced Practice in Mental Health Nursing. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-05536-2_12

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-05536-2_12

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  • Online ISBN: 978-3-031-05536-2

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