Depression in Islam: Overcome Depression With Islamic Guidance

Depression is among the most common mental health conditions that affects millions of people worldwide. This issue is still stigmatized in parts of the world, especially in the subcontinent.

Mental health conditions are not necessarily recognized as an actual physical illness. Serious concerns such as depression and anxiety are often swept under the rug or dismissed with advice to simply pray more or stop thinking too much.

As Muslims, we often have these thoughts that we are depressed because we are not praying enough or not praying right or with conviction, or it is because of our sins. It is not necessarily correct.

Islam provides a comprehensive way to deal with depression by combining both practical and spiritual methods. Let’s discuss below.

Key Takeaways

• Depression is a real struggle and does not mean that you have a weak faith in Islam.
• The Holy Quran and Sunnah offer hope, patience, and direction towards healing.
• Prayer, dhikr, and reliance on Allah can provide peace.
• Islam promotes seeking medical or professional help if necessary.

The following are the ways to deal with anxiety and depression in Islam:

1. Prayer and Dhikr

Islam teaches us to pray and perform dhikr frequently especially in times of hardship.

If you are feeling depressed, remember Allah through dhikr. It will not only help divert your mind away from negative thoughts but also help you relax and lift your worries.

Phrases like “SubhanAllah” (Glory be to Allah), “Alhamdulillah” (All praise is due to Allah), and “Allahu Akbar” (Allah is the Greatest are easy to remember and recite, making them perfect for dhikr at any time of the day.

2. Healthy and Balanced Diet

In Islam, we are advised and informed on how to live every aspect of life, even how to eat an appropriate diet.

With modern science, we now know that many of these Islamic recommendations are also scientifically recognized to be helpful in terms of our physical and mental health.

Some examples include staying hydrated, practicing moderation in eating, eating at specific times throughout the day, and fasting in Ramadan.

Dietary changes can lead to positive health improvements, including mood regulation.

3. Spending Time in Nature

The Islamic belief encourages Muslims to walk outside and appreciate nature. Based on what we know now from science, both sunlight and physical activity are associated with being healthy, both physically and mentally.

Walking outdoors three to four times a week or in thirty-minute or more intervals has been shown to alleviate depressive symptoms in individuals paired with a healthy diet and relational dynamics.

4. Introspection and Meditation

There are many narratives in Hadith about the Prophet (ﷺ) taking time to isolate himself so he could practice thoughtful or deep meditation practices.

Knowing that you can be away from an unhealthy environment or circumstance to be able to think about the difficult choices and moments is important for empowerment and growth.

You can practice meditation and contemplation every day by taking twenty minutes of your time to think deeply about your life, or you can practice mindfulness and gratitude.

There are various ways to implement these practices into your daily routine, which could allow us time to process those things that are causing us feelings of isolation, loneliness, or despair.

5. Caring For Physical Health

The Prophet (ﷺ) emphasized caring for one’s health and body. He taught moderation in fasting and prayer, warning that extremes could cause harm.

In one narration, he said to Abdullah ibn Amr:

“Your body has a right over you, your eyes have a right over you, and your wife has a right over you.” (Sahih Bukhari).

Good physical health assists mental health. Physical exercise, your diet, and adequate rest are important overall.

6. Gratitude and Patience

When faced with trials, the Prophet (ﷺ) demonstrated patience (sabr). He faced personal losses, persecution, and many challenges, yet he remained steadfast in faith. He taught us that life will always bring challenges and that relief will come after hardship.

Allah says in the Holy Quran:

“For indeed, with hardship [will be] ease. Indeed, with hardship [will be] ease.”
(Surah Ash-Sharh 94:5-6)

Therefore, Muslims going through tough times are urged to practice patience (sabr) with the belief that hard times are Allah’s way of testing your faith. Islam teaches us not to worry about the worldly life too much and focus on the positive aspects of life.

Gratitude (shukr) for your blessings, even when faced with difficulties, contributes to a positive mindset. Reflecting on the positive aspects and the blessings you’re experiencing can help put challenges in their proper perspective. 

Conclusion

Depression in Islam should not be viewed as a sign of weak faith, but instead a test of your faith that will ultimately bring you closer to Allah.

Life will always have ups and downs, but as long as you use prayer, patience, and remembrance of Allah, peace can be found in the heart.

To conclude, reach out to trusted individuals for help, take care of the body, and keep hope in Allah’s mercy. No matter how heavy the depression feels, always remember that help from Allah is near.

If you are feeling depressed, therapy can help. At Shifa Therapy you can find online Muslim therapists for Islamic counseling sessions and consult them remotely over an audio or video call.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)