WASHINGTON — A study released by Temple University found that people who feel close to a higher power and pray often are more likely to be depressed, while people who attend religious services and feel that their lives have purpose are less likely to be depressed.
Lead researcher Joanna Maselko found that people who report being in a close relationship with a higher power are 1.5 times more likely to struggle with depression. She believes depressed people may use religion as a coping mechanism, and as a result, "they're more closely relating to God and praying more."
People who did not necessarily report being close to a higher power but did attend religious services regularly are 30% less likely to struggle with depression. Being involved in a faith-based community helps forge attachments to others, which prevents depression, the report said....
