Spiritual and Psychological Well-Being of Soldiers in Military Barracks: A Case Study in Iran

Abstract

Background: Spiritual well-being is the newest dimension of health, which is placed along with the physical, mental, and social aspects of health. Since soldiers in military barracks are exposed to multiple psychological pressures, their psychological well-being can be affected. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the spiritual well-being and psychological well-being and the relationship between these two concepts among soldiers in military service. Methods: A descriptive-analytical study was conducted at a military barracks in Iran in 2019. The study population included 301 soldiers selected using a convenience sampling method. Data were collected using three questionnaires for data on sociodemographic, psychological well-being, and spiritual well-being. Results: The results showed that soldiers' spiritual well-being (Mean ± SD: 100.6 ± 12, 30, range: 50 – 120) and Psychological well-being (PWB) (Mean ± SD: 85.85 ± 7.91, range: 48 – 104) were at high levels. Furthermore, a significant correlation was observed between spiritual well-being and psychological well-being (P value< 0.001, r = 0.41). Conclusion: Considering the correlation between spiritual well-being and psychological well-being among soldiers in military service, it is possible to improve their psychological well-being by promoting spiritual well-being. In this regard, more interventional and combination studies are recommended in the field of psychological well-being and spiritual well-being.