Amish Beliefs

Amish Beliefs on Western Medicine

The Amish community are known for their spiritual beliefs, culture and simple life style. They follow a discipline called, Ordnung, which is a set of written basic life style rules that defines, restricts or allows certain aspects of their culture and traditions such as their dress code, hair length, and their farming skills. This set of rules differ from one community to another which is why they do things differently; for example, some use automobiles while other prefer to get things done by foot or carriage. The motive of this report is to notify colleagues about the religious barriers in the healthcare practices in replacement with natural medicine, Cardiovascular diseases and mental illness in the community,

The Amish community are said to astray away from the word “mental illness” as they see it as stigmatism, therefore depend on church leaders as a form of therapy, but they are also aware that mental illness cannot be treated with prayers alone. According to Nathalie (2006), a survey reports “The majority of women (74%) stated that they would be criticized if the counseling they received was not Christian-oriented, and a majority of the religious leaders (76%) surveyed believed that members of their church should begin mental health treatment by contacting and discussing their problems with the minister or bishop”, this proves the strong beliefs they maintain as a culture and not let non-Amish traditional medicine affiliate with the views, even though progress has been witnessed, which is why “84% women and nearly all men confess they would encourage their families and friends to receive mental health treatment regardless of cost”. Medical researchers encourage families to be more willing to support and be aware of psychiatric medication that can be provided to relief and treat patients with their symptoms linked with mental health (facts and figure.)

Consequently, there are plenty of resources and health programs that educate the community about possible diseases, speak about any medical concerns they face with their religious leaders or with their trusted herbal local healer. Family is stated

According to Schub, (2006), author concludes that the Amish view herbal medicine as safe, and western medicine are seen to be more harmful than beneficial. Although, Amish culture are said to be more active because of their labor and are more productive, they are also expected to follow a diet and do daily activities to stay fit. Compared to the U.S population, Amish men are declared to be more physically fit and have low rates of obesity. Regarding a study done in Canada, it’s found an average of 10 hours and physical service for 43 hours of moderate activity per week, are said to be much higher than a none-Amish typical