Islam and Mental Wellness: Approaches for Maintaining a Healthy Mind

Mental health encompasses your emotional, social, and psychological well-being, influencing how you think, feel, and behave in daily life. Mental health disorders, including depression, schizophrenia, and anxiety, are more common than many realize. In the UK, approximately one in six adults experience a common mental disorder like depression or anxiety each week, according to the National Health Service. In the US, about one in four adults suffers from a diagnosable mental disorder annually.

Despite the prevalence of these issues, stigma often prevents people, including Muslims, from seeking necessary medical help and support. However, the Quran and Sunnah offer many effective strategies for managing mental health struggles.

Key Islamic Practices for Mental Health:

Trust in Allah: Placing your trust in Allah is fundamental. Believing firmly that everything is decreed by Allah and nothing happens without His permission is central to this trust. This belief should be reflected not only in your thoughts but also in your actions, such as regular prayer and reading the Quran.

"Never will we be struck except by what Allah has decreed for us; He is our protector." And upon Allah let the believers rely." (At-Tawbah 9:51)
Practice Ruqya: Reciting Ruqya, as taught by the Sunnah, can offer protection. Surah Al-Ikhlaas, Surah Al-Falaq, and Surah An-Nas are recited three times, followed by blowing into the hands and wiping over the face and body. This practice was used by the Prophet Muhammad during illness and serves as a means for seeking Allah’s blessing and healing.
Engage in Dua: Dua is a powerful tool. Remember to approach dua with a sincere heart, repenting for sins and asking for forgiveness. Start your supplications by praising Allah, acknowledging His greatness.

And your Lord says, "Call upon Me; I will respond to you." (Surah Ghafir 40:60)
Seek Medical Help: Islam encourages seeking cures for ailments, acknowledging that Allah has created both the disease and its cure. It is a sign of wisdom to seek medical treatment for all types of illnesses, be they physical or mental.

“When Allah created the disease, He also created the cure, so seek the cure.” (Narrated by Ahmad)
Provide a Support Network: If you know someone is struggling, reach out. Setting up support groups in the mosque or community can offer a lifeline to those in need. Remember how the companions of the Prophet Muhammad supported each other in times of need.
Exercise Patience (Sabr): Patience is a highly regarded virtue in Islam. The Quran and Hadith are replete with verses and teachings that exhort the believers to adopt patience in every aspect of life.

“Indeed, the patient will be given their reward without account." (Az-Zumar 39:10)

Remember, applying these Islamic teachings can profoundly impact your ability to manage life’s challenges and maintain mental well-being. May Allah grant us the strength to implement these practices in our daily lives.