Healthcare Experiences and Expectations of Atheists, Deists and Agnostics in Türkiye: A Qualitative Study of Mental Well-Being.

Abstract

Introduction: Understanding how belief systems, or their absence, shape healthcare experiences is crucial for developing equitable and inclusive healthcare services.

Aim: This study aimed to explore the healthcare experiences and expectations of atheists, deists and agnostics residing in Türkiye, with a focus on their mental well-being.

Methods: A qualitative study was conducted in Samsun, Türkiye, between June and August 2025. Purposive sampling was used and in-depth, semi-structured face-to-face interviews were conducted with 17 participants. Data were analysed using Colaizzi's phenomenological method and participants' direct quotations supported the identified themes and subthemes. The study adhered to the COREQ criteria for reporting qualitative research.

Findings: Five main themes emerged: (1) Holistic Perception of Health, (2) Identity and Invisibility, (3) Dual Experiences in Healthcare Services, (4) Contextual Vulnerability in Mental Well-Being and (5) Expectations for an Egalitarian and Professional System. Many participants avoided disclosing their non-religious identity to healthcare professionals; those who did often encountered judgemental attitudes or unsolicited religious advice. Such experiences appear to contribute to decreased trust and, in some cases, avoidance of healthcare services.

Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that atheists, deists and agnostics may experience forms of invisibility within healthcare settings in this context, which can adversely affect their mental well-being. Providing neutral, equitable and empathy-based care, improving access to mental health services and training healthcare professionals, including nurses and physicians, to be sensitive to diverse belief systems are critical steps towards developing inclusive and human-centred health policies in Türkiye.

Relevance statement: This study is relevant to psychiatric mental health nursing as it addresses the overlooked mental health experiences of atheists, deists and agnostics, a group often rendered invisible within healthcare systems. By exploring how stigma, exclusion and religious bias influence their psychological well-being and trust in care providers, the study contributes to understanding the social determinants of mental health. The findings emphasise the need for nurses to deliver non-judgemental, empathy-based and culturally competent care that acknowledges diverse belief systems. Integrating such inclusive approaches into mental health nursing practice can enhance therapeutic communication, trust and overall psychological safety for all patients.

Implications for practice: Healthcare professionals often overlook the needs of non-religious individuals, resulting in reduced trust, avoidance of care and weakened mental well-being. This study highlights the importance of empathy-based, neutral and inclusive care practices. Training nurses and other healthcare professionals to recognise and respect diverse belief systems will enhance communication, strengthen patient trust and contribute to equitable, human-centred healthcare delivery.