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> MSU News
Participants sought for study on spirituality and chronic illness
November 18, 2002 -- Carol Schmidt
Rural Montana residents with a chronic disease are being sought for a study by university nursing researchers on the relationships between spirituality and chronic illness.
The study, conducted by researchers from Montana State University-Bozeman College of Nursing and Oregon Health & Sciences University School of Nursing, is looking into the role that spirituality may play in how people heal, manage chronic illness, and in the quality of life of people with chronic illness.
"Spirituality is an overreaching human characteristic, and integrating force that allows us to be most fully human," said Clarann Weinert, an MSU College of Nursing professor and director of the Center for Research on Chronic Health Conditions in Rural Dwellers, which is based at MSU-Bozeman's, College of Nursing. "Likewise, spirituality appears to have a profound effect on helping people to heal, manage illness, and find comfort during illness."
The researchers are seeking rural people, 18 or older, who have a chronic illness such as multiple sclerosis, cancer, diabetes, heart or lung problems, fibromyalgia, arthritis, etc., and who would be interested in participating in this study.
The relationships between spiritual thoughts and feelings and chronic illness may be an important part of managing chronic illness, said Weinert, whose center promotes research that will help people with chronic disease to use healthy behaviors, avoid complications, and manage their illness.
The researchers have defined spirituality in three ways: a) having a sense of meaning and purpose in life; b) feeling connected to other people, God, or nature; and c) commitment to something greater than the self.
Some people may express their spirituality through their religious practice, but others have spiritual thoughts and feelings without any religious beliefs, Weinert said.
In addition to having a chronic illness, study participants must also live in a rural town (less than 20,000 people) or farm/ranch in Montana or Oregon and live at least 25 miles outside a town of 20,000 or more. People who participate in the study will complete a mail questionnaire that will take about an hour. Questions cover meaning and purpose in life, connections with others, nature and with a higher power, the ability to reach out to others, and management of chronic illness.
Eligible individuals interested in joining the study may call (1-888) 380-1053 (toll free) and a questionnaire will be mailed. The questionnaire includes a return envelope with postage.
For questions about the study contact Weinert, using the toll free number.
Clarann Weinert (406) 994-2782
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