Asian Muslim Culture on Religious teachings and support for Mental Health and Wellbeing
We were delighted to have worked with Sareen who has been with us at Billy's Lifeline over the past few weeks for her work placement, as part of her studies at Sunderland College.
Sareen shared with us how she celebrates Ramadan to give us an insight of her religion and community. The team have enjoyed learning about Asian Muslim culture and beliefs around mental health and loss to suicide from Sareen and it has helped us understand more about how we can support the community. Sareen and her sister, with permission from her family and teachers have kindly written an article explaining more:
Mental health is a critical aspect of overall well-being, yet it remains a taboo subject in many communities, including among Asian Muslims. The intersection of cultural beliefs, religious teachings, and societal expectations can create barriers that prevent individuals from seeking help. This article aims to explore why mental health issues are often stigmatised in Asian Muslim communities, the impact of these beliefs, and the importance of fostering open dialogue to support individuals in need.
For many Asian Muslims, traditional beliefs and interpretations of Islam can shape attitudes toward mental health. Some may perceive mental health struggles as a sign of weakness or a lack of faith. There is a fear that admitting to mental health issues could indicate a failure to trust in Allah’s plan or a belief that one's struggles are a punishment for sins. This perspective can lead to feelings of shame and guilt, preventing individuals from seeking the help they need.
Additionally, religious teachings often emphasise reliance on prayer and spiritual practices as the primary means of coping with distress. While faith can provide comfort, it may inadvertently discourage individuals from seeking professional help, leading to the misconception that mental health issues can be resolved solely through spiritual means.
In many Asian cultures, mental health is often viewed through the lens of honour and reputation. Families may fear that discussing mental health issues will bring shame or dishonour, not only to the individual but also to the family as a whole. This concern can lead to silence and isolation, as individuals may feel compelled to hide their struggles rather than risk stigma.
Additionally, there may be a lack of understanding and awareness about mental health among community leaders and family members. This knowledge gap can result in invalidation of an individual's experiences, further discouraging them from opening up. The emphasis on collective identity over individual expression can also stifle conversations about personal struggles, making it difficult for those in need to reach out for support.
To combat stigma and promote mental health awareness in Asian Muslim communities, education is crucial. Community leaders, educators, and mental health professionals must work together to provide accurate information about mental health. Workshops, seminars, and open dialogues can help dispel stories and encourage individuals to seek help without fear of judgment.
Moreover, integrating mental health education into religious and cultural contexts can foster a more supportive environment. By framing mental health as an important aspect of overall well-being that is compatible with Islamic teachings, communities can promote a holistic approach to health that includes both spiritual and psychological dimensions.
Creating supportive networks is essential for individuals struggling with mental health issues. Peer support groups, community outreach programs, and culturally competent counselling services can provide safe spaces for individuals to share their experiences and seek help. Encouraging open discussions within families and communities can help normalise conversations about mental health and reduce the stigma associated with it.
In Islam, rather than seeing the hardships as a reason to give up, it encourages believers to presents difficulties as tests of faith that, when endured with patience, lead to spiritual growth and unlimited rewards. Through the Quran it reassures believers reminding them that suffering is temporary and will be followed by relief. By praying and seeking support from our loved ones and turning to Allah through prayer are all encouraged to support those means to overcome despair.
Supporting Asian Muslims with mental health matters requires a multifaceted approach that addresses cultural and religious beliefs while promoting open dialogue. By fostering understanding, providing education, and creating supportive environments, we can help individuals feel empowered to seek help and prioritise their mental health. It is essential to remember that mental health is not a reflection of faith or character; rather, it is a crucial aspect of our human experience that deserves attention and care.
To conclude, there are many open doors for individuals, diverse communities and people of multiple ages, please reach out for support if in distress or a difficult state of emergency:
Call 999
Call Samaritans on 116 123
Text SHOUT to 85258 for mental health support
Call Papyrus Hope Line on 0800 068 4141 for young suicide prevention
If you or a family member or friend has lost a loved one to suicide, please contact Billy’s Lifeline. Their primary focus is on establishing a secure and compassionate environment where individuals impacted by suicide can access immediate practical and emotional support. Our goal is to alleviate the stigma associated with suicide loss and actively promote mental well-being within our community.
Contact details provided below:
Billy’s lifeline.
Unit 13 Cookson House, River Drive
South Shields
Tyne and Wear
NE33 1TL
Phone number – 0191 716 9555
Email – info@billyslifeline.org
By Syeda S. Anisa and Syeda S. Ariana