RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SPIRITUALITY AND MENTAL HEALTH

PERCEPTION OF PSYCHOACTIVE DRUGS USE IN THE EVANGELICAL POPULATION

Abstract

The study aimed to analyze the relationship between spirituality and mental health and explore the perception of the use of psychotropic drugs in the evangelical population of the State of Paraíba. Using a quantitative and descriptive cross-sectional approach, the research included 150 participants selected for convenience. Data were collected through an electronic questionnaire in Google Forms®, being analyzed in Microsoft Excel®️ 2013. The study contextualizes the historical emergence of the target audience, highlighting the importance of pharmacological thinking in the treatment of psychological distress and validating spirituality as a human dimension. The research reveals a female predominance (73.3%), an age group between 18 and 29 years old (52%), and 32.7% with incomplete higher education. The majority religious affiliation is with the Assembly of God (38%), and 23.3% have a family income of 1 to 2 minimum wages. The results indicate that 70.7% have knowledge about psychotropic drugs, with 26% reporting lifetime use. There is a high rate (11.7%) of obtaining it without a medical prescription. Religious diversity in Brazil defies conclusions, with a notable growth in evangelical faith. As for psychotherapy, 34.7% have already undergone it, but 82% heard that it is not necessary due to the Bible, revealing a prejudice associated with psychologists. Regarding the correlation between psychological illnesses and spirituality, 78.7% stated that there is, while 38.7% believe in the influence of evil spirits. The study highlights the increase in cases of depression (18% from 2005 to 2015) and the belief of 24% that healing occurs only through prayer. In general, there is a perceived prevalence of effectiveness of psychotherapy and psychotropic drugs, despite resistance and accessibility challenges.