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Spiritual Care and Palliative Support

Spiritual care improves quality of life in chronic and terminal illnesses.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Geleneksel ve Tamamlayıcı Tıp department. Book Appointment →

What is Spiritual Care and Palliative Support?

Spiritual care is a palliative care component that supports the patient's religious beliefs, existential concerns, search for meaning and sense of hope, and is part of the healthcare team. It is a broad concept encompassing religious and secular dimensions.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes spiritual care as a fundamental component along with physical, psychological and social care in its definition of palliative care. Structured spiritual assessment tools such as FICA and HOPE are used.

Spiritual care can be provided by hospital chaplains, spiritual counselors or trained healthcare professionals. It is not the imposition of religion or denomination but support appropriate to the patient's own beliefs.

Symptoms

Existential crisis after a terminal illness diagnosis
Search for meaning and purpose
Fear and anxiety of death
Need for guilt and forgiveness
Feelings of social isolation and loneliness

Risk Factors

Neglecting spiritual distress
Religious imposition or proselytism
Cultural insensitivity
Lack of spiritual care education in the healthcare team

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When the need for spiritual support is felt after a serious illness diagnosis
  • In the search for meaning and peace in end-of-life care
  • When the patient or family requests spiritual counseling

Treatment Methods

01
Structured spiritual assessment (FICA tool)
02
Spiritual counseling appropriate to the patient's beliefs
03
Meaning-centered psychotherapy
04
Support of meditation and prayer practice
05
Facilitating communication between family and patient

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Geleneksel ve Tamamlayıcı Tıp department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Geleneksel ve Tamamlayıcı Tıp Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.