Dr. D,

Lately I've had this feeling of being lost. I feel like I've changed so much since school started and I'm not sure I know who I am anymore. I question just about everything these days, especially my religion. There are so many people with so many different beliefs; I feel it's caused my own morals and values to shift. I feel confused and conflicted about my spirituality. I know you only deal with health, but I just needed some feedback!

— Lost

Dear Lost,

"The meaning of life is found in the process of moving from who you are now to who you will become." Yea, I know this sounds kind of Monty Python-ish, but it happens to be one of my core beliefs about our existence. Let me assure you, as lost as you may feel, this is normal, and it may not be something to feel great angst over.

The funny thing about college is that it not only requires you to make social and academic transitions, but it also presents you with the opportunity to re-examine other aspects of your life, including religion and spirituality. Now before anyone starts chanting "blaspheme," hear what I am saying. I am not saying you need to re-examine your religion, but this is usually the first time people your age have the opportunity.

I have always said education starts with asking questions. You seem to be questioning some of the fundamental beliefs that define your identity, and as you have already found out, questioning the fit and legitimacy of your present beliefs concerning who you are can cause confusion. Some people find it unnerving and describe it as a feeling as if they are losing the stability of their foundation. For others, this process may additionally be fraught with guilt, especially if it is a re-examination of religious beliefs.

Health includes three connected dimensions: body, mind and spirit. If you believe, as I do, that health is about finding clarity in what we believe, then what you are doing is healthy. Spirituality is the dimension of health that most people never take the time to truly examine. Seeking spiritual health is no different a process than it is for mind or body health. People seek to develop clarity concerning their values and beliefs and find meaning as they relate to their connection and purpose with everything. We tend to find a measure of inner peace and conviction through this process. As with body and mind health, you need to seek out the truth that works for you and this is not always easy. You are always being exposed to new ways of looking at things.

MSU is likely to be the most diverse place you have lived thus far. During the first 18 years of life, most people are challenged to find someone who has a different set of beliefs as they do, especially the beliefs instilled by their parents. Now, you may live in a dorm where in each room on your floor lives someone with a different set of beliefs — the chances of finding someone with the exact same set of beliefs is part of the struggle.

Regardless of what you end up choosing to believe, what's most important is the process you go through.

If you find you believe in something different than you did prior to coming here, take pride in the fact that the choice was yours. You may end up coming right back to the place you started and if so, you'll know that is what's right for you and will be able to understand and defend your reasons for choosing. You need not compromise your beliefs in order to do this, but it is important to understand what you believe and why you believe it. I encourage you to take your time learning who you are and experiencing as much of life as you possibly can.

Peace luv dove! Dr. D.

Dennis Martell, Ph.D., is a coordinator of Olin Health Education and writes a weekly health column for The State News. E-mail him your questions at dennis.martell@ht.msu.edu.