DEALING WITH SPIRITUAL DISTRESS • F

DEALING WITH SPIRITUAL DISTRESS • First, we must be comfortable with our own spirituality and/or religiosity, and be clear to some extent, on our own spiritual issues listed above, if any.• When patients are ready to open up on the subject, our aim is to help the person towards some resolution and understanding. Accept that there is unlikely to be a specific answer– it is “OK” not to know. • Listen attentively and be prepared to face uncertainties – just by “being there” you can help the patient to make connections and embark on their own search for meaning. • Doing a “Life review” exercise is an example of how we can help the patient to come to terms with who they are, what they have become, their achievements and their regrets, their unfinished businesses. Once we manage to put the past into perspectives, it will be a lot easier to help patients address what is to come and how they would face it. • Some patients may want to practice! certain religious rituals to! help them deal with their spiritual distress. If you feel you are out of your depth in dealing with certain issues with their spiritual and/or religious needs, offer a particular group or person such as an imam/monk/chaplain to be there for the patients. • Helping patients deal with their spirituality may be emotionally draining for you. Make sure you are able to detach yourself from the emotions with support from family and friends or doing something you enjoy.