Spiritual care
This is a central aspect of palliative care which is difficult to define as it varies depending on individual needs and beliefs. However the common link is allowing space for a patient, and those that care for them, to express, explore and discuss their beliefs systems. By doing so we can aim to alleviate distress arising from these belief systems when confronted with death and dying. Any conversation with a person with life limiting illness may touch on spiritual issues alongside the physical or psychological ones and may play a part in the experience of these. Spiritual care may therefore be considered as promoting well-being in a holistic fashion.
Types of spiritual distress
- Fear about the future
- Fear of dying and what happens to us after death
- Loss of sense of identity
- Feelings of helplessness and loss of control
- Anger
- Guilt
- Shame
- Breaking or strengthening of religious connections
Strategies for managing spiritual distress
- Accept there is unlikely to be a solution and it is OK not to know the answers
- Listen and be present and open to hearing their distress
- Do not be scared to ask questions which may highlight some of this distress e.g. loss, fear
- Offer support of local chaplaincy or other spiritual leader depending on the patients’ belief system
- Explore and understand what requirements they may have around death and dying
- Reassure and support where possible
- Seek support for yourself where necessary