Researchers Find Huge Health Benefits in the Christian Faith

Teresa Neumann : May 2, 2011
Ariel R. Rey - The Christian Post

"One study even found that religious attendance was associated with a more than 90 percent reduction in meningococcal disease (meningitis and septicemia), in teenagers, a protection at least as good as meningococcal vaccination."

A new report from Christian Medical Fellowship says those who believe in God not only live a healthier life but also add 14 years to their life.

The report, entitled "Health Benefits of Christian Faith" by Drs. Alex Bunn and David Randall, reads, "In contrast to the popular myth that Christian faith is bad for health, on balance, and despite its limitations, the published research suggests that faith is associated with longer life and a wide range of health benefits. In particular, faith is associated with improved mental health." (Photo: Joakim Buchwald)

According to the report, the mental health benefits for Believers include: "well-being, happiness and life satisfaction; hope and optimism; purpose and meaning in life; higher self-esteem; better adaptation to bereavement; greater social support and less loneliness; lower rates of depression and faster recovery from depression; lower rates of suicide and fewer positive attitudes towards suicide; less anxiety; less psychosis and fewer psychotic tendencies; lower rates of alcohol and drug abuse; less delinquency and criminal activity; greater marital stability and satisfaction."

"One study even found that religious attendance was associated with a more than 90 percent reduction in meningococcal disease (meningitis and septicemia), in teenagers, a protection at least as good as meningococcal vaccination. Furthermore, religious involvement has been associated with improved adherence to medication."