Does prayer ease anger in patients facing terminal illness?
People with terminal illnesses often feel deep anger as they grapple with their diagnosis and what lies ahead. This anger can stem from questions like “Why me?” or resentment toward doctors, family, or even a higher power. Studies and experts suggest that prayer can help ease this anger by providing comfort, a sense of purpose, and emotional release.
In palliative care, which focuses on improving quality of life for those with serious illnesses, spirituality plays a big role. A study by Biney et al. in 2024 looked at caregivers for terminally ill people in Ghana. It found that faith and prayer were key coping strategies. Caregivers used prayer alongside music and relaxation to handle stress and emotions, including anger. The study highlighted how religious practices brought optimism and inspiration, helping people stay strong. For more on this, see https://www.thesocialworkgraduate.com/post/palliative-care-social-work.
Patients themselves face similar struggles. Terminal illness brings tough questions about death, family, and meaning in life. Religion and spirituality help many find answers or peace. Prayer offers a way to express anger directly to God or a higher power, turning resentment into hope. Experts like Puchalski in 2001 note that spirituality is central in palliative care for this reason.
Grief experts describe anger as a normal stage in facing loss, including anticipatory grief before death. You might feel mad at the illness, yourself, or others. Spiritual activities like praying or meditating can bring solace here. They help process emotions without bottling them up, which only makes anger worse over time. For details, check https://www.helpguide.org/mental-health/grief/coping-with-grief-and-loss.
Prayer works by creating calm and connection. It lets people release pent-up feelings in a safe way. While not everyone believes the same, those who pray often report less agitation and more acceptance. Caregivers in the Ghana study wove prayer into daily life, which boosted their ability to support loved ones without burning out.
Doctors and counselors encourage spiritual practices in end-of-life care. If faith is part of your life, leaning on it can reduce anger’s grip. Talking to a clergy member or joining a faith group adds extra support. This approach fits with broader coping tools like therapy, but prayer stands out for its personal, immediate relief.
Sources
https://www.thesocialworkgraduate.com/post/palliative-care-social-work
https://www.helpguide.org/mental-health/grief/coping-with-grief-and-loss
