A new report from the Institute for the Impact of Faith in Life (IIFL) has revealed that religious belief plays a significant role in shaping emotional wellbeing in Britain today. Titled Faith & Happiness: How Religious Belief Shapes Britain’s Emotional Wellbeing, the study explores the connection between faith, life satisfaction, and mental resilience.
The report found that people of faith are more likely to experience higher levels of happiness, inner peace, and hope for the future. Specifically, 75% of religious respondents said their faith helps them find meaning and purpose in life, compared to just 38% of those without religious beliefs.
Muslims reported some of the highest levels of hope among all religious groups, with 74% saying they feel hopeful about the future. Despite facing ongoing challenges such as discrimination and economic inequality, many Muslim respondents expressed a strong sense of optimism and community support grounded in their religious practice.
The study also highlighted that people who actively engage with their faith—through prayer, reflection, and participation in religious communities—tend to report better mental and emotional health outcomes than those who do not.
These findings suggest that religion remains a vital source of strength and stability in an increasingly individualistic and uncertain world. As public debate around faith continues, this research offers timely insight into the positive role that belief can play in British society.
Commenting on the report, NZF CEO, Dr Sohail Hanif said:
“This new report highlights the profound emotional and mental health benefits of faith in people’s lives. At NZF, we see this reflected every day through the impact of Zakat. Giving and receiving Zakat is not merely a financial exchange—it’s a deeply spiritual act that strengthens trust in God, nurtures community bonds, and uplifts the hearts of both giver and recipient.”
The report concludes with a call to better understand and support the emotional and social value of religious life across communities, particularly at a time when many are struggling with loneliness, anxiety, and a sense of disconnection. In a society seeking answers to the mental health crisis, faith may offer a much-needed foundation of hope, purpose, and resilience.
You can read the full report which is available on the IIFL’s website here.
