Emotional burnout, anxiety and depression are absolutely common. Take what is happening around us and the chances of being affected may triple.
I’m a person who advocates mental health and I’m against the stigma created around it.
Having said that, I wish to bring forth how beautifully Islam has created the concept of mental health around it without dismissing its importance.
There are places where you find Allah speaking to the Prophet in the following manner:
‘We know indeed that what they say certainly grieves you’ (Surah Anaam: 33)
And in Surah Al-Hijr, Verse 97:
‘And surely We know that your breast straitens at what they say;’
These words portray the aspect of ‘validation’, and the validation of feelings is a vital part of psychology.
Likewise, if you take the ‘Fortress of the Muslim’, you will find many authentic supplications for anxiety, depression and sadness.
Further, the Quran itself is a healing towards mankind. Surah Dhuha which was revealed after what is referred to as the Prophet (sal)’s ‘Year of Depression’ where he lost both his beloved wife and his uncle. This Surah consists of verses of reassurance and has verses reminding the Prophet (sal) reminding of his past favors.
In Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) there is a technique which consists of changing unhelpful thought patterns where you remind yourself of situations where you overcame past challenges.
The purpose of this post is to create importance around the concept of mental health and emotional burnout. Islam by itself advocates mental health, so why do we create unnecessary stigma around it?
Take necessary help if the need persists. Speak to a loved one and most importantly prolong your sujood (prostration) and send your troubles up to the heavens.
Sharika Mubarack for Zasha Thoughts