Dealing with spiritual needs at the end of life
We all have our own traditions, beliefs or questions about our lives. This can be broader than the rituals of specific religions or churches. Towards the end of life, you may become more aware of these feelings, or your beliefs might change. You might want to think and talk about them.
What can you do?
If you have a specific belief system, then the traditions of your religion or faith system can offer support. Talking about your beliefs and thoughts with your faith leader or friends and family might bring a lot of comfort. Your religious advisor may be able to visit you if you’re in hospital or in a hospice.
Spirituality might involve thinking and talking about your past and the future, or carrying out personal traditions. You may want to think about and discuss questions such as “Why has this happened to me?” or “What happens next?” Talking about these questions can be very helpful. It’s important you can explore your spiritual needs in the last few weeks of your life, if you want to.
If you have specific needs relating to your spiritual or religious beliefs, it’s important the people caring for you know. For example, if you have any specific requests about how you’d like your body to be handled after you die.
Read next: Talking to loved ones about death
Download our end of life information (PDF, 490KB)
Last medically reviewed: March 2021. Due for review: March 2024
This information uses the best available medical evidence and was produced with the support of people living with lung conditions. Find out how we produce our information. If you’d like to see our references get in touch.
