Evaluating the effectiveness of stoic teachings on spiritual coping strategies in patients undergoing hemodialysis: A randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Stoic philosophy may be a practical intervention to enhance coping. This randomized clinical trial was conducted between February and May 2025. A total of 52 patients undergoing hemodialysis were randomly assigned to intervention (26) and control (26) groups. The intervention group got 8 weeks of Stoic training. Demographic and spiritual coping strategies questionnaires were completed and were analyzed using SPSS with appropriate statistical tests. The mean change of total spiritual coping strategies and the non-religious dimension (p = 0.001, Cohen’s d = −0.95; and p < 0.001, Cohen’s d = −1.09, respectively) was found to be greater in the intervention group, but was not significantly different (p = 0.08, Cohen’s d = −0.49) in the religious dimension. Teaching Stoicism may enhance the spiritual aspect of coping strategies. Further experimental intervention studies are recommended across diverse settings and different populations, including formal and informal caregivers, patients with chronic illnesses, and students.