Workers who are more actively religious tend to feel better and are less likely to report symptoms of depression and anxiety, a new study suggests.

UK psychologist, Dr Roxane Gervais, monitored 34 full-time young employees. Most were female and single rather than married. Issues such as job satisfaction, wellbeing and religious activity were measured.

The study found that those who were more actively religious were more likely to feel that their lives had meaning. They were also more likely to report low levels of depression, anxiety and fatigue.

Workers who attended religious services said that this made them feel better about themselves.

Dr Gervais suggested that as the pace of life accelerates, people are longing to find meaning in their lives.

"The younger generation in particular is looking for more than just a big pay cheque at the end of the month. My research shows that religiosity in the workplace may act as a resource, making people more resilient to cope with the many challenges of working life. Such personal beliefs could be very helpful not only for employees, but also for employers," she insisted.

She added that employers should be encouraged ‘to accommodate, where possible, employees' religious beliefs while at work, and not shy away from the issue'.

These findings were presented at the Annual Conference of the British Psychological Society's Division of Occupational Psychology in Brighton.