Islamic views on Mental health:
Islamic
views on mental health are rooted in a holistic understanding of well-being,
encompassing the mind, body, and spirit. Islam emphasizes the importance of
mental health and encourages seeking a balance in life, maintaining positive
thoughts, and managing emotions in a healthy manner.
- The Mind-Body-Spirit
Connection:
Islam teaches that mental health is closely connected to physical health
and spiritual well-being. The Quran and Hadith (sayings of the Prophet
Muhammad) stress the importance of self-care, prayer, and positive
behavior for maintaining mental health. A healthy mind is seen as
essential to spiritual growth, and vice versa.
- Seeking Help: Islam does not view
seeking help for mental health issues as a sign of weakness. In fact,
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged seeking treatment for
physical and mental ailments. The Islamic tradition recognizes the
importance of professional help, such as counseling, therapy, and medical
treatment, when needed. Seeking help is seen as an act of self-care and
trust in Allah’s plan.
- The Role of Faith: Faith plays a crucial role
in mental well-being in Islam. Regular prayer (Salah), remembrance of
Allah (Dhikr), and reading the Quran are believed to provide comfort and
peace of mind. The Quran often emphasizes finding solace through reliance
on Allah and seeking strength through faith.
- Stigma Around Mental Health: Historically, mental
health issues may have been stigmatized in some parts of the Muslim world.
However, many modern scholars and leaders are working to address and
reduce the stigma, promoting a more understanding and compassionate
approach to mental health.
- Caring for Others: Islam places great
importance on caring for others, especially those who are suffering from
mental health challenges. Compassion and empathy are fundamental in Islam,
and supporting loved ones through their struggles is highly encouraged.
- Emotional Regulation and
Mindfulness:
Islam encourages emotional regulation and mindfulness through practices
like prayer and reflection. The teachings emphasize patience (Sabr),
gratitude (Shukr), and trust in Allah's wisdom, which help manage stress,
anxiety, and emotional turmoil.
- Hope and Positivity: Islam encourages
maintaining a hopeful and positive outlook, even in difficult times. The
Quran reminds believers that after hardship comes ease (Quran 94:6). This
outlook helps to foster resilience in facing life's challenges.
Islam
promotes a comprehensive approach to mental health, which includes faith,
self-care, seeking professional help when needed, and fostering a compassionate
community.
Islamic
views on mental health go beyond just the concepts of well-being and self-care.
They also provide a comprehensive framework for understanding mental health
issues and promoting healing, both physically and spiritually. Here is a deeper
exploration of the Islamic perspective on mental health:
1. Holistic Approach to Mental Health
In Islam,
mental health is seen as interconnected with physical health and spiritual
well-being. This holistic view encourages individuals to take care of their
bodies, minds, and souls. Islam emphasizes that well-being is not just about
the absence of illness but about maintaining a balance between physical health,
emotional stability, and spiritual peace.
- Physical health: Islam encourages
maintaining good physical health through a balanced diet, regular
exercise, and avoiding harmful substances like alcohol and drugs.
- Mental health: Mental well-being is
nurtured by cultivating positive thoughts, managing stress, and finding
inner peace. Islam encourages practicing self-control and mindfulness in
daily life.
- Spiritual health: The spiritual aspect of
mental health in Islam involves strengthening the relationship with Allah,
performing regular prayers (Salah), reading the Quran, engaging in acts of
worship, and maintaining a moral and ethical lifestyle.
2. The Concept of Nafs (Self)
In
Islamic psychology, the concept of the Nafs (self or soul) plays a
significant role in understanding mental health. The Nafs is considered the
source of one’s thoughts, emotions, and desires. Islam teaches that the Nafs
can be in different states:
- Nafs al-Ammara (The
Commanding Self):
This is the base level of the soul, which inclines towards selfishness,
sin, and negative emotions. Struggling with this lower self is part of the
human condition, and overcoming it requires self-restraint, repentance,
and seeking Allah's guidance.
- Nafs al-Lawama (The Blaming
Self):
This is a higher state where the individual becomes aware of their moral
flaws and seeks to correct them. The person may feel guilty or regretful
for past actions, but this state can be a catalyst for growth and
self-improvement.
- Nafs al-Mutmainna (The
Peaceful Self):
This is the state of inner peace and contentment, where the individual is
in harmony with Allah, their surroundings, and their inner self. This
state is the goal of spiritual and psychological growth in Islam.
Through
self-reflection, repentance, and positive action, individuals are encouraged to
purify their Nafs and move toward the state of inner peace and tranquility.
3. The Importance of Prayer and Spiritual Practices
Spiritual
practices are integral to mental health in Islam. Regular engagement in prayers
(Salah), remembrance of Allah (Dhikr), and recitation of the Quran are seen as
methods of healing and strengthening the mind.
- Salah (Prayers): Performing the five daily
prayers serves as a spiritual practice that provides an opportunity to
disconnect from worldly stresses and focus on the connection with Allah.
This ritual helps alleviate feelings of anxiety, stress, and depression by
fostering a sense of purpose and meaning.
- Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah): Engaging in Dhikr through
reciting praises of Allah can bring calmness to the heart and mind. It is
a means to cope with life's challenges, reduce anxiety, and find comfort
during times of distress.
- Quranic Healing: The Quran is considered a
source of comfort and healing. Many verses in the Quran offer solace and
wisdom for those struggling with mental health challenges. For instance,
Quran 94:6 states: “For indeed, with hardship [will be] ease” — a
reminder that difficulties are temporary and can lead to growth.
4. Patience (Sabr) and Gratitude (Shukr)
Patience
and gratitude are two key virtues in Islam that promote mental resilience.
- Sabr (Patience): The Quran and Hadith
emphasize patience during times of trial and adversity. Practicing Sabr
helps individuals manage stress, cope with grief, and persevere through
difficult situations. Patience is seen as a way to align oneself with
divine wisdom and remain steadfast in faith.
- Shukr (Gratitude): Gratitude is encouraged as
a way to foster positive thinking. By focusing on what one has, rather
than what one lacks, individuals can improve their mental outlook and
experience a sense of contentment. Gratitude has been shown in
psychological studies to improve overall mental health by reducing
symptoms of depression and anxiety.
5. Seeking Help and Professional Support
Islam
acknowledges that mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, and grief,
are real challenges that may require professional treatment. Mental health is
not considered a sign of weakness but rather something that should be addressed
with both spiritual and practical solutions.
- Islamic guidance on seeking
help:
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized seeking help for ailments, both
physical and mental. He said, "Make use of medical treatment, for
Allah has not made a disease without appointing a remedy for it, with the
exception of one disease, namely old age" (Sahih Bukhari). This
reflects the importance of seeking medical treatment when necessary,
including therapy and counseling for mental health.
- Therapeutic and
psychological support: Islam encourages individuals to reach out
for help when struggling with mental health issues. Many Muslim scholars
today advocate for integrating Islamic values with contemporary
psychological approaches. Counseling, psychotherapy, and psychiatric care
are recognized as valid forms of treatment.
6. Stigma and Mental Health
In some
Muslim communities, mental health issues have historically been stigmatized,
with the belief that individuals experiencing mental health challenges may be
weak in faith or morally deficient. However, contemporary Islamic scholars and
health professionals are working to reduce this stigma and promote a more open,
supportive approach.
- Islamic teachings on empathy
and compassion:
Islam encourages empathy and understanding for those who suffer from
mental health issues. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) taught kindness and
compassion, saying, “Whoever alleviates the suffering of a believer in
this world, Allah will alleviate his suffering on the Day of Judgment”
(Sahih Muslim). This principle is applied to mental health,
encouraging communities to offer support rather than judgment.
7. Role of Family and Community
Family
and community support are crucial aspects of mental health in Islam. The Quran
and Hadith emphasize the importance of maintaining strong familial bonds and
offering support to those in need.
- Family support: Families are encouraged to
provide emotional and psychological support to their loved ones,
especially during times of mental distress. The family plays an essential
role in helping individuals cope with difficulties and promoting a healthy
environment for healing.
- Community support: Islam encourages the
Muslim community to work together in supporting those who are struggling,
whether with mental health challenges or other difficulties. Charity
(Sadaqah) and acts of kindness are seen as ways to ease the burdens of
others.
8. Coping with Loss and Grief
Islam
provides specific guidance for dealing with grief and loss, which are often
triggers for mental health struggles. The loss of a loved one is a profoundly
difficult experience, and Islam encourages both grieving and finding strength
in faith.
- Acceptance and trust in
Allah's plan:
Muslims believe that death is a part of life and that all things are under
the control of Allah. While it is natural to grieve, believers are
reminded to trust in Allah's wisdom and accept that death is part of the
divine plan. This acceptance can help individuals find peace even in the
face of profound loss.
Islamic
views on mental health encompass a comprehensive approach that integrates
spiritual, psychological, and physical well-being. The teachings of Islam
encourage individuals to take care of their mental health by fostering a strong
connection with Allah, practicing patience and gratitude, seeking help when
needed, and relying on the support of family and community. By aligning oneself
with these principles, one can achieve a balanced, peaceful, and resilient
mental state.
Importance about mental health in
Islam:
In Islam,
mental health is considered a fundamental aspect of overall well-being, which
is seen as an integral part of a person's faith, health, and spiritual growth.
The importance of mental health in Islam can be understood through its holistic
approach, which emphasizes the balance of mind, body, and soul. Here are
several key points that highlight the significance of mental health in Islam:
1. Holistic Well-being
Islam
promotes a comprehensive view of well-being that includes physical, emotional,
mental, and spiritual health. The Quran and Hadith stress the importance of
taking care of all aspects of a person's health, as each dimension is
interrelated. Mental health is not seen in isolation but as part of an
individual's overall well-being. Maintaining mental health ensures that a
person can live a balanced life, fulfill religious obligations, and contribute
positively to society.
2. The Mind-Body-Spirit Connection
Islam
acknowledges the interconnectedness between the mind, body, and spirit. A
healthy mind is essential for a strong faith, and a peaceful heart is vital for
spiritual growth. The teachings of Islam encourage individuals to care for
their mental health by maintaining emotional balance, practicing positive
thinking, and staying connected to Allah. A sound mind enables a person to
manage life's challenges and fulfill their religious duties effectively.
3. Faith as a Source of Peace and Healing
In Islam,
faith plays a crucial role in promoting mental well-being. Regular prayer
(Salah), remembrance of Allah (Dhikr), and reflection upon the Quran are
believed to help calm the heart and mind. These spiritual practices provide a
sense of purpose, comfort, and peace, which are essential for overcoming
stress, anxiety, and emotional turmoil. The Quran mentions that “Indeed, with
hardship comes ease” (Quran 94:6), reminding Muslims that difficulties are
temporary and that Allah's wisdom and mercy will ultimately provide relief.
4. Mental Health Is Not a Sign of Weakness
Islamic
teachings emphasize that mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression,
and stress, should not be stigmatized or seen as a sign of weakness. Just as
physical illnesses are acknowledged and treated, mental health challenges
should also be treated with compassion and understanding. Prophet Muhammad
(PBUH) said, "Make use of medical treatment, for Allah has not made a
disease without appointing a remedy for it" (Sahih Bukhari),
underscoring the importance of seeking professional help when necessary.
Seeking treatment for mental health issues is not only permissible in Islam but
is encouraged as part of self-care.
5. The Concept of Nafs (Self)
The
Islamic concept of the Nafs (self or soul) plays a key role in
understanding mental health. According to Islam, the Nafs can be in different
states, ranging from a lower state (Nafs al-Ammara) inclined toward negative
behaviors and desires to a higher state (Nafs al-Mutmainna) of peace and
contentment with Allah's will. The process of purifying the Nafs involves
self-reflection, repentance, and striving toward moral and spiritual growth.
Mental health is seen as part of this purification journey, where individuals
work to achieve emotional and psychological balance.
6. The Importance of Emotional Regulation
Islam
places great emphasis on emotional regulation, including managing negative
emotions such as anger, jealousy, and hatred. The Quran and Hadith provide
guidance on how to deal with emotions in a healthy way. For instance, anger is
considered a destructive emotion, and Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) advised
controlling it by seeking refuge in Allah, changing one's posture, or engaging
in Dhikr. By managing negative emotions, individuals can improve their mental
health and maintain peace of mind.
7. Patience (Sabr) and Resilience
Patience,
or Sabr, is a key virtue in Islam that plays a vital role in mental
health. Islam teaches that life is full of challenges, and patience is
essential in dealing with adversity. Patience helps individuals cope with
stress, loss, and hardship while maintaining a positive outlook. It is through
practicing Sabr that a person builds emotional resilience, learns to manage
difficult situations, and strengthens their faith in Allah’s wisdom. The Quran
assures believers that Allah is always with them in their trials, providing
strength and comfort.
8. Gratitude (Shukr) for Mental Well-being
Gratitude,
or Shukr, is another powerful concept in Islam that directly impacts
mental health. Practicing gratitude encourages individuals to focus on their
blessings and maintain a positive attitude, even in the face of challenges. The
Quran emphasizes gratitude as a key to happiness and contentment, saying: "If
you are grateful, I will certainly give you more" (Quran 14:7). A
grateful heart fosters emotional stability, reduces feelings of anxiety and
depression, and helps individuals appreciate the good things in their lives.
9. Seeking Support and Community Care
Islam
stresses the importance of social support and caring for others. The Muslim
community (Ummah) is encouraged to support one another, especially those who
are struggling with mental health challenges. Islam teaches empathy, kindness,
and compassion toward those who are suffering, whether from mental health
issues or other difficulties. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, "None of you
truly believes until he wishes for his brother what he wishes for himself"
(Sahih Bukhari). This principle promotes a supportive and understanding
environment where individuals can seek help and feel cared for.
10. Reducing the Stigma of Mental Health
Islamic
teachings highlight the importance of reducing the stigma around mental health
issues. Historically, some Muslim communities may have viewed mental illness as
a moral failing or spiritual deficiency. However, contemporary scholars are
working to change this perception, advocating for a compassionate approach to
mental health based on Islamic principles of empathy, understanding, and
support. Islam encourages individuals to seek treatment for mental health
concerns, just as they would for physical ailments.
11. Mental Health as an Act of Worship
Maintaining
mental health is seen as an act of worship in Islam. Taking care of one's mind
and emotions is part of fulfilling the duty of self-care, which is encouraged
in Islamic teachings. By maintaining mental health, individuals are better able
to serve Allah, help others, and fulfill their roles in society. Islam teaches
that taking care of one's health, including mental health, is a form of
gratitude to Allah for the body and mind He has bestowed upon a person.
In Islam,
mental health is recognized as an essential component of a person's well-being,
intertwined with physical and spiritual health. The importance of mental health
in Islam is reflected in its teachings on emotional balance, self-care, seeking
help, and spiritual practices. Islam offers a comprehensive framework for
promoting mental health, emphasizing the need for compassion, patience,
gratitude, and a connection to faith. By following these principles, Muslims
can achieve a state of mental peace, resilience, and overall well-being.
Role of mental health in islam:
Mental
health holds a significant place in Islam, as it is closely linked to a
person’s overall well-being, faith, and relationship with Allah. Islam provides
guidance on maintaining mental well-being through spiritual, emotional, and
social support. Here are some key aspects of the role of mental health in
Islam:
1. Emphasis on Inner Peace and Tranquility
- Islam encourages a balanced
life where mental peace is achieved through faith, prayer (Salah), and
remembrance of Allah (Dhikr).
- The Qur’an states:
"Verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest." (Surah Ar-Ra’d 13:28)
2. Trust in Allah (Tawakkul) and Coping with
Hardships
- Islam teaches that
difficulties and hardships are part of life, and trusting Allah’s plan
(Qadr) helps in dealing with stress and anxiety.
- The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
said: "Amazing is the affair of the believer, for there is good
for him in every matter… If he experiences hardship, he remains patient,
and that is good for him." (Sahih Muslim)
3. Seeking Help and Healing
- Islam encourages seeking
help for mental health issues, whether through counseling, therapy, or
support from family and community.
- The Prophet (PBUH) said: "For
every disease, Allah has made a cure." (Sahih al-Bukhari)
4. Avoiding Negativity and Toxic Thoughts
- Islam advises against
excessive worry and negative self-talk, promoting gratitude (Shukr) and
contentment (Qana’ah).
- The Qur’an reassures: "Do
not despair of the mercy of Allah." (Surah Az-Zumar 39:53)
5. Maintaining Social Connections
- Good mental health is
supported by strong family and community ties, kindness, and helping
others.
- The Prophet (PBUH) said: "The
most beloved people to Allah are those who are most beneficial to
others." (Al-Mu’jam Al-Awsat)
6. Self-Care and Rest
- Islam promotes a balanced
lifestyle, including proper rest, nutrition, and recreation.
- The Prophet (PBUH)
emphasized moderation in worship and worldly matters, advising against
extreme stress or burnout.
Conclusion
Mental
health in Islam is a vital aspect of holistic well-being. Faith, prayer,
gratitude, patience, and seeking support are essential tools for maintaining a
healthy mind and soul. Islam does not see mental health struggles as a weakness
but rather as a test and an opportunity to grow spiritually and emotionally.
Aspects
about Mental Health:
Islam
places great importance on mental well-being and provides a comprehensive
approach to maintaining psychological health. Below are key aspects of mental
health in Islam:
1. Spiritual Well-Being and Inner Peace
- Islam teaches that true
peace comes through connection with Allah. Acts of worship such as Salah
(prayer), Dhikr (remembrance of Allah), and Dua
(supplication) help in reducing anxiety and stress.
- The Qur’an states:
"Verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest." (Surah Ar-Ra’d 13:28)
2. Trust in Allah (Tawakkul) and Coping with
Hardships
- Believers are encouraged to
have Tawakkul (trust in Allah) in difficult times, understanding
that challenges are part of life.
- The Prophet (PBUH) said:
"No fatigue, nor disease, nor sorrow, nor sadness, nor distress befalls a Muslim, even if it were the prick he receives from a thorn, but that Allah expiates some of his sins for that." (Sahih al-Bukhari)
3. Seeking Help and Healing
- Islam encourages seeking
treatment and professional help for mental illnesses.
- The Prophet (PBUH) said:
"For every disease, Allah has made a cure." (Sahih al-Bukhari) - Therapy, medication, and
talking to trusted people are all encouraged in Islam.
4. Emotional Well-Being and Positivity
- Islam teaches emotional
intelligence, self-control, and avoiding excessive stress.
- Negative thoughts and
hopelessness should be replaced with gratitude (Shukr) and patience
(Sabr).
- The Qur’an reassures:
"Do not despair of the mercy of Allah." (Surah Az-Zumar 39:53)
5. Social Support and Community
- Islam emphasizes maintaining
strong family ties, seeking support from loved ones, and being part
of a caring community.
- The Prophet (PBUH) said:
"The believers are like a structure, each part strengthening the other." (Sahih al-Bukhari) - Loneliness and isolation can
worsen mental health, so staying connected is vital.
6. Self-Care and Moderation
- Islam promotes a balanced
lifestyle, including:
- Rest and relaxation: Avoiding excessive work
or stress.
- Healthy eating: A balanced diet
contributes to mental health.
- Physical activity: Exercise and movement
improve mood.
- Moderation in everything: Islam discourages extreme
behavior in any aspect of life.
7. Forgiveness and Letting Go of Negativity
- Holding grudges and
excessive guilt can harm mental health. Islam encourages forgiveness
and letting go of negative emotions.
- The Prophet (PBUH) said:
"Be merciful to others, and you will receive mercy. Forgive others, and Allah will forgive you." (Musnad Ahmad)
8. Purpose and Meaning in Life
- A strong sense of purpose
contributes to mental well-being. Islam gives a clear purpose: to
worship Allah and do good in the world.
- The Qur’an states:
"And I did not create the jinn and mankind except to worship Me." (Surah Adh-Dhariyat 51:56)
Conclusion
Mental
health in Islam is deeply connected to spirituality, emotional resilience,
social support, and self-care. Islam encourages trust in Allah, seeking
help, maintaining a balanced life, and finding peace through faith.
Significance about Islamic views
on Mental health:
Islam
places great importance on mental well-being, recognizing that a sound mind is
essential for a healthy and productive life. The Islamic perspective on mental
health integrates spiritual, emotional, and social dimensions, providing
guidance for individuals to achieve inner peace and resilience. Below are some
key aspects highlighting the significance of Islamic views on mental health:
1. Holistic Approach to Well-Being
- Islam views mental health as
an integral part of overall well-being, encompassing spiritual,
emotional, and social health.
- It encourages a balanced
lifestyle where faith, self-care, and community support contribute to
emotional stability.
2. Trust in Allah (Tawakkul) as a Coping Mechanism
- Islam teaches that life’s
challenges are tests from Allah, and believers should maintain Tawakkul
(trust in Allah) during hardships.
- The Qur’an reassures:
“And whoever relies upon Allah – then He is sufficient for him.” (Surah At-Talaq 65:3) - This belief helps
individuals manage stress, anxiety, and uncertainty by knowing that
Allah’s wisdom is behind every event.
3. Encouragement of Seeking Help and Healing
- Islam does not stigmatize
mental illness but encourages seeking medical, psychological, and
spiritual help.
- The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
said:
"For every disease, Allah has made a cure." (Sahih al-Bukhari) - Therapy, counseling, and
support from others are seen as valid and necessary means of treatment.
4. Role of Prayer and Remembrance (Dhikr) in Mental
Stability
- Salah (prayer) and Dhikr (remembrance
of Allah) help in reducing stress, anxiety, and depression.
- The Qur’an states:
"Verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest." (Surah Ar-Ra’d 13:28) - Engaging in worship provides
spiritual comfort and psychological relief.
5. Emotional Regulation and Patience (Sabr)
- Islam teaches self-control,
patience (Sabr), and gratitude (Shukr) as key tools to handle
emotional distress.
- The Prophet (PBUH)
emphasized emotional balance:
"The strong person is not the one who can wrestle others, but the one who can control himself when he is angry." (Sahih al-Bukhari)
6. Importance of Social Support and Community
- Islam encourages strong
family and community bonds, as social connections help in overcoming
loneliness and emotional struggles.
- The Prophet (PBUH) said:
"The believers are like one body; if one part feels pain, the whole body responds with wakefulness and fever." (Sahih Muslim) - Being part of a supportive
environment promotes mental resilience and healing.
7. Balance in Life and Self-Care
- Islam discourages extreme
stress and burnout, emphasizing a moderate and balanced life.
- Sleep, diet, physical
health, and relaxation are all part of mental well-being.
- The Prophet (PBUH) said:
"Your body has a right over you, your eyes have a right over you, and your wife has a right over you." (Sahih al-Bukhari)
8. Avoiding Despair and Promoting Hope
- Islam strongly discourages
despair and hopelessness, urging believers to always seek hope in Allah’s
mercy.
- The Qur’an states:
"Do not despair of the mercy of Allah. Indeed, Allah forgives all sins." (Surah Az-Zumar 39:53) - This mindset protects against depression and promotes optimism in
The
Islamic perspective on mental health is deeply rooted in faith, emotional
resilience, social support, and self-care. Islam encourages seeking
help, practicing patience, maintaining social ties, and finding peace through
faith. These principles provide a comprehensive framework for
achieving mental well-being while navigating life’s challenges.
Conclusion:
Mental
health is an essential aspect of overall well-being, and Islam provides a
comprehensive framework to nurture it. Through faith, prayer, trust in Allah
(Tawakkul), patience (Sabr), and gratitude (Shukr), individuals can develop
resilience in the face of life’s challenges. Islam encourages a balanced
approach, integrating spiritual, emotional, and social well-being while
emphasizing the importance of seeking help and maintaining strong community
ties.
Psychology in Islam is used in everyday practices but under different guises, such as spiritualism. Islam values the importance of good mental health and emotional wellbeing. The Quran can be used as a guide to those suffering from emotional distress and aims to lead people to a meaningful quality of life.
What is mental health:
- Mental health is our emotional, psychological, and social well-being.Mental health does not only affect the way we think feel, and act but also how we handle stress, relate to others and make choices.
- Mental health is not limited to emotional problems. For instance if a couple is having difficulty getting along; if parents and kids are having trouble seeing eye to eye; or if a person is underperforming at school or work; then a counselor or therapist may be able to guide the person to resolving their problems.
- Whether mental health is caused by biological factors, life experiences or family history,it is important to know that help is available.
What are the common mental health issues?
- Stress: Defined as the body's response to demand.Stress can cause physical, emotional and behavioural disorders which can affect your health and peace of mind,as well as personal and professional relationships. Too much stress can cause relatively minor illnesses like insomnia, backaches, or headache and can contribute to potentially life- threatening disease like high blood pressure and heart disease.
- Generalized Anxiety disorder: An excessive feeling of fear or worry about things that are independent of a stress-causing event.General symptoms include problems such as sleeping, feeling of panic cold or sweaty hands, dry mouth of breathe and not being able to stay calm.
- Panic attacks: Sudden onset of intense fear and discomfort that reaches its peak within minutes and include 4 of the following symptoms: increased heartbeat, trembling, sweating nausea, feeling of choking chest pain dizziness fear of losing control fear of dying, feeling of unreality and numbness or tingling sensation.
- Major depressive disorder: A feeling of constant hopelessness and despair.Consists of a combination of symptoms that affect the individuals daily ability to work,sleep, eat and enjoy things in life. May occur only once, but more commonly appears several times throughout the individuals lifetimes.
- Marital issues: Common disputes between spouses, family member's involving physical abuse and psychological abuse.
What is the connection between mental health and Islam:
- Role of patience: Islam attaches great importance to patient and it is the focus of about 200 verses of the Quran and referred to indirectly in Many Muslims to proceed towards worthy goals, undeflected by adverse circumstances or repeated provocations.
- Evil Eye: Belief in the evil eye is found in the Quran based on the following verse: " And from the evil of the envied when he envies," The concept of an evil eye is the belief that an individual can look at people, animals, or objects and cause harm due to jealousy.
- Spiritual possessions: The belief that Jinn has the power to possess an individual causing harm to the person and those around them.
What are the some misconceptions about mental health in the Muslim community:
- Mental health as a taboo subject in the Muslim community leads to embarrassment and fear for the members of the community who do have mental illness. This is a serious issues that needs to be addressed so that those suffering can get the help needed.
- Another misconceptions in the Muslim community is that mental health is associated with being non- religious or not religious enough." Many factors may contribute to the development of mental health issues, so it is not fair to oversimplify multifactorial medical condition this way because it dismisses the potential role of mental health professionals in helping.
- Many Muslims believe that today's mental health issues are tests from God and therefore are not addressed.
- A non Muslim mental health professionals is going to impose their beliefs in you and is going to undermine your Islamic beliefs.The professional and ethnic obligations of all mental health professionals are to be respect your religious values and beliefs.If Islam and your spirituality is an important factor in your life, you should have an open discussion with your therapist or counselor.
- As with any profession, you may like some counselors better than others. If you have or had a bad experience with a counselor and therapist there are literally thousands of other counselors you Can turn to and may offer a better experience.
If someone faith in Allah they should not be depressed or have mental illnesses, should they?
What is Islam's role in addressing mental illnesses and mental health challenges people face:
1. Take care of your physical health:
- Low-fat protein rich food such as fish energies your brain and make you alert while sugar heavy foods dull your mental processes.
- Many carbohydrates boost serotonin in your brain which will lift your mood if you are generally depressed or have the winter blues.
- Folic acid, found in green leafy vegetables and legumes, can make you less depressed and irritable and improve your patterns.
- Nuts and fruits high in boron, improve your mental disease.
- If you are susceptible to anxiety, avoid caffeine, and eat complex carbohydrates like pasta and potatoes.