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As in other world religions, there are widespread differences in Buddhist belief and practice, depending on the particular part of the world in which the person lives (or if living in a Western country, where they or their family immigrated from). Knowing something about Buddhist beliefs and practices in Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana traditions (as reviewed in this book) will be helpful when counselling Buddhist clients. Systematic research on Buddhism and mental health as reviewed in Chapters 6 and 7 may help to inform clinicians about evidence-based approaches for treating Buddhist clients. Although there is great need for more systematic research, a number of tentative conclusions can be made about the relationship between Buddhism and mental health.
Research suggests that Buddhists who are active in their faith tradition are often happier, more satisfied with life, and cope better with stress (even the horrific stress encountered with torture). This is not true for all Buddhists, however, particularly those who are only marginally religious or living in areas of the world where Buddhist beliefs are not supported or encouraged (as has been the case in China until just recently). Certain Buddhist practices, such as mindfulness and other forms of meditation may be helpful to Buddhist patients, particularly if practiced within the context of the Eightfold Path and integrated with core Buddhist teachings.
Buddhist clients may also be receptive to religiously-integrated forms for counselling described here, and I have provided suggestions and resources in this regard. Regardless of whether Buddhist beliefs and practices are integrated into therapy or not, the mental health professional should always take a detailed spiritual history so that mental health care is client-centred and provided in a way that is sensitive to and supportive of the Buddhist client’s personal beliefs and values.