Our society has more than 270 subcultures and 1200 religious groups. Organized religions provide values, beliefs, norms, and a frame of reference to organized information and govern daily activities. At the heart of religion is the faith that one's beliefs are true and valid. Religious beliefs can have a strong influence on views about health and illness. Illness may be interpreted as a punishment for certain deeds.
Some religions promote very healthy life styles - no alcohol or tobacco.
Religious values and beliefs affect health decisions. Christian Scientists avoid using medicines and believe in laying on of hands by ministers. The spiritual dimension is that part of the person concerned with meaning and is therefore a principle determinant of health-related attitudes. The spiritual dimension can be used as a powerful resource for healing and communication. The spiritual dimension tries to be in harmony with the universe, strives for answers about the infinite and especially comes into focus or sustaining power when the person faces emotional stress, physical illness or death.