Spirituality as a strategy for managing mental health in students

Abstract

Introduction: The mental health of students has been widely affected by academic, emotional, and social factors, leading to high levels of anxiety, depression, and stress. In this context, spirituality emerges as an important coping resource capable of promoting emotional balance and well-being. Objective: To analyze the relationship between spirituality and mental health among students. Method: An integrative literature review study conducted in the Scientific Electronic Library Online, National Library of Medicine, and Virtual Health Library databases, using the descriptors “Spirituality,” “Mental health,” and “Students.” A total of 15 articles published between 2006 and 2025, in English and Portuguese, were included. Results: Most studies (86.7%) reported a positive association between spirituality and mental health, highlighting a reduction in symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress, as well as increased resilience, hope, and optimism. However, variations in effects were observed depending on cultural context and type of spiritual experience, along with a lack of inclusion of the topic in health-related curricula. Conclusion: Spirituality was found to act as a protective and promoting factor for mental health, supporting the management of academic pressures and strengthening internal resources. Its integration into educational and healthcare practices is recommended, aiming for a more humanized and balanced training process.