Abstract
As of 2017, 27% of the United States population identifies as spiritual but not religious (SBNR) – a 150% increase from 2012. Notably, during that same period the number of individuals identifying as both religious and spiritual decreased from 59% to 48% (Putnam & Campbell, 2010). As new generations are moving away from organized religion, and increasingly identifying as spiritual but not religious (SBNR) the absence of organized religion’s protective effects on mental health could have a strong negative impact on society’s collective mental health and well-being unless alternate outlets, supports, and sources of meaning in life take its place. The purpose of this study was to explore the benefits of spirituality for mental health and well-being in non-religious (SBNR) millennials. This study also sought to provide insight into the SBNR identity and how mental health professionals can support clients who identify as SBNR. Eight SBNR millennials between the ages of 27 and 42 engaged in semistructured interviews addressing these topics. Following data collection, thematic analysis was used to highlight four main themes and 13 subthemes present in the data. Findings shed light on 1. SBNR identity development, beliefs, and practices, 2. Sources of spiritual guidance, spiritual growth, community, and belonging, 3. Benefits of spirituality for mental health and well-being, and 4. Ways to support the mental health of SBNR clients. Results and clinical implications of findings are discussed.