The effect of pilgrimage on anxiety, depression and religious attitude.

This investigation aimed to ascertain the levels of anxiety, depression and religion attitude, by means of rating scales, in a group of physically sick men and women planning to go on a pilgrimage to Lourdes. These levels were reassessed one month and ten months after the pilgrims had returned. There was a statistically significant decrease in anxiety and depression which was sustained. The possible reasons for these findings are discussed.