The Mental Health Benefits of Forgiveness

Global Study shows that when forgiveness is taught, practiced and achieved, it promotes better mental health and well-being and offers a groundbreaking Forgiveness Workbook in 6 different languages.

Christianity places a strong emphasis on forgiveness as a central component of our walk with God— promoting healing, reconciliation, and spiritual growth.

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. —Ephesians 4:32

Studies have found that individuals who have strong religious beliefs and practices are more likely to forgive others, even in difficult and challenging situations.

From a scientific perspective, research has shown that forgiveness is associated with a range of psychological, social, and physical benefits, including improved mental health, reduced stress, improved relationships, and better physical health outcomes.

Studies have even shown that forgiveness has a positive impact on academics, lower blood pressure, better sleep and less anxiety.  According to Andrew Serazin, president of the Templeton World Charity Foundation, says research they have funded validates the science behind forgiveness, “It helps the people who are doing the  forgiving.  It helps inside your own skin.”

In some cases, science and faith perspectives on forgiveness may overlap and reinforce each other. For example, both science and faith traditions emphasize the importance of empathy, compassion, and understanding in the forgiveness process.

A recent global study into forgiveness, funded by Templeton, focused on the emotional benefit of the process of forgiving, focusing on what they call the REACH method of forgiveness in 6 different languages.  Dr. Everett Worthingon, lead researcher, developed this model to understand the links between mental, physical, and spiritual benefits of forgiveness.

REACH Method: 

REACH: (R) Recall the Hurt; (E) Empathize with the offender, give the; (A) Altruistic gift of forgiveness; (C) Commit, and (H) Hold onto the forgiveness.

Watch this video to learn more about the Templeton World Charity Foundation's Work on Forgiveness and Human Flourishing:

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