A Forgotten Strategy in Post-War Psychological Trauma Care: A Narrative Review of Care Ethics and Spirituality Therapy
akhlāq-i pizishkī i.e., Medical Ethics,
Vol. 19 (1404),
25 September 2025
,
Page 1-12
https://doi.org/10.22037/mej.v19i1.49979
Abstract
Background and Aim: Spiritual therapy, as a value-based approach, appears to help war-affected populations to facilitate the experience of psychological trauma. This study aims to narratively review the evidence on the role of spiritual therapy in managing post-war psychological trauma within an ethical framework, particularly in communities with a strong religious-cultural background.
Methods: This narrative review was conducted based on a comprehensive literature review in PubMed/ Medline, Google Scholar and national Persian-language databases, including SID, Magiran, Irandoc and Noormagz. English and Persian articles that addressed the role of spiritual therapy in war-affected populations were assessed. The analysis was conducted thematically and EndNote X20 software was used for reference management.
Ethical Considerations: In the present study, the ethical aspects of review studies, including the authenticity, honesty and integrity, were adhered to.
Results: The literature on spirituality therapy in war-affected populations included eight studies that could be classified into five themes: 1. Reduction of post-traumatic stress symptoms; 2. Psychological resilience; 3. post-traumatic growth; 4. Contradictory findings among refugees; 5. Positive and negative religious coping. Socio-religious activities, group meetings and creative workshops could reduce anxiety and increase resilience. However, the effectiveness of spiritual therapy depends on supportive, culturally sensitive and professionally guided frameworks. Positive religious coping is associated with post-traumatic growth, while negative coping is associated with increased psychological distress. The lack of professional support or social structure can limit or even harm the impact of spirituality.
Conclusion: The results showed that spiritual therapy should not be viewed as a substitute for psychotherapy, but rather should be offered in a structured, voluntary and integrative manner with psychotherapy interventions. Adhering to the principles of care ethics, respecting religious diversity and providing a safe environment for expressing negative emotions are essential for these interventions. Spirituality can be a source of meaning, hope and resilience and by integrating it with psychotherapy, it can improve the mental health of war-affected populations. Future research should focus on longitudinal evaluation and the development of culturally-psychological integrated guidelines.
- Spirituality
- War Crimes
- War-Related Injuries Trauma
- Ethics
How to Cite
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