Orion  Mowbray
University of Michigan, SSW
1080 S. University Room B660
Ann Arbor MI 48109-1106
U.S.
Phone: 734-615-2120
Email: omowbray@umich.edu

Carol T. Mowbray
University of Michigan, SSW
1080 S. University
Ann Arbor MI 48109-1106
U.S.
Phone: 734-615-2120
Email: cmowbray@umich.edu

Mark Holter
University of Michigan, SSW
1080 S. University
Ann Arbor MI 48109-1106
U.S.
Phone: 734-615-2120
EMail: holter@umich.edu

Peter MacFarlane
University of Michigan, SSW
1080 S. University Room B660
Ann Arbor MI 48109-1106
U.S.
Phone: 734-615-2120
EMail: soeren@umich.edu

Purpose: Research has shown a positive relationship between involvement in spiritual/religious activities and mental well-being. However, few studies have discussed the importance of spirituality for people with a serious mental illness.  The objective of this study was to explore the significance of spirituality for this population and to determine the relationship between spirituality and recovery from mental illness.
 
Methods: The study uses data from interviews with 1920 individuals with serious mental illness who were participants of consumer-centered services: clubhouses and drop-in centers. A hierarchical regression model was used to explore the extent to which consumers self-reported spirituality predicts whether or not they consider themselves in recovery, taking into account demographic variables (i.e., gender, age, ethnicity, and education), psychiatric symptomatology and duration of illness (average duration is 19 years).
 
Results: In general, findings revealed that spirituality is a significant predictor of whether people consider themselves in recovery from mental illness. Regression analysis also revealed that spirituality is a significant predictor of recovery from mental illness even when controlling for relevant demographic variables and indicators of mental health problems (depressive and psychotic symptoms), and when controlling for recovery from alcohol and drug problems, which may have confounded the results. Additionally, psychotic symptoms inversely predict recovery from mental illness, while level of depressive symptoms shows no relationship to recovery.

Implications: Although the regression equation was significant, only a relatively small amount of the variance was accounted for, indicating that more research is needed on recovery perhaps incorporating work and other meaningful activities, social support, and services. Research on spirituality and psychiatric illness should further examine specific types of spiritual activities and their relationship to recovery and wellness. In addition, service providers should consider spirituality as relevant to the recovery process and should support, promote, or incorporate spiritual activities in programs for this population.