ABSTRACT
Spirituality, recognised as central to mental health from ancient times, has remained so in many non-Western and Indigenous traditions, while this knowledge has been substantially lost in the West in recent centuries. Continuing high suicide rates among young adult males, especially in Indigenous and rural communities and culturally diverse groups, suggest an urgent need for (among other measures) cross-cultural dialogue and exploration of spirituality in mental health promotion, service delivery and research. A standard part of any mental health enquiry concerns young people’s views about what is most important to them and what gives their life purpose and meaning. Spirituality is the meeting point of many paths, has demonstrable mental health benefits and is capable of protecting and connecting young people in their quest for a viable life in an increasingly consumer-driven society. Spirituality is not a panacea, however, and should always be considered critically.
