A study by Temple University, Philadelphia, found that people who feel close to a higher power and pray often are one and a half times more likely to be depressed.
A researcher said depressed people may use religion as a coping mechanism.
People who didn’t necessarily report being close to a higher power but did attend religious services regularly are 30 percent less likely to struggle with depression.
Being involved forges attachments to others, which prevents depression, the report said.
© 2013 Augsburg Fortress, Publishers
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