5 Misconceptions About Depression Among Muslims

Depression is not the low mood or sadness that everyone experiences from time to time. It's a clinically diagnosed medical health condition with specific symptoms and treatments.

It’s a misconception that depression is a sign of weak iman (faith). The truth is, mental illness can affect anyone, regardless of how strong their iman is. Depression is a mental illness, not a spiritual illness.

Misconception #1: Depression Is A Punishment From Allah Or A Sign Of Weak Iman

Many people believe that depression is a sign that Allah is punishing them or that their faith (Iman) is weak. The inference is that depression is the fault of the depressed person. It's your fault that you are depressed because you are far from Allah or you are not doing enough worship. This idea creates a deep sense of shame and guilt, preventing people from seeking help.

The reality is that depression is a medical condition. It's a disease, just like diabetes or heart disease. It affects the brain's chemistry and can be caused by a combination of genetics, life events and physical health. Just like devout and non-devout Muslims get diabetes and heart disease, both devout and non-devout Muslims get depression.

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said that for every illness, Allah has provided a cure. This includes mental illnesses. It's a test from Allah, and your response to it is what matters. Seeking professional help, such as talking to a therapist or even taking medication temporarily, is a sign of strength and a fulfillment of your responsibility to take care of the body Allah has entrusted to you.

Misconception #2: The Quran and Dua (Prayer) *Alone* Can Cure Depression

The Quran and dua are incredibly powerful tools for healing. They provide spiritual comfort, hope and a deep connection to Allah. However, expecting them to be the only solution can lead to disappointment and a feeling of failure if you don't feel better. This is like expecting dua alone to fix a broken bone without going to the hospital. Or reciting the Quran on a diabetic and expecting her to be cured without seeking medical treatment.

In reality, Islam encourages us to use all available resources for healing, including medical and psychological treatments. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) himself sought medical advice, took medicine and encouraged others to do so. In the same way that we pray for a cure and seek treatment for a physical ailment, we should do the same for our mental health. Your journey to healing is not just about spirituality; it’s about a holistic approach that combines Islam with medical science and psychology.

Misconception #3: You Only Need to Talk to an Imam or Scholar If You Have Depression

Imams and scholars are invaluable members of our community. They are a source of spiritual guidance, Islamic knowledge and religious fatwas. They can help you with your deen, your relationship with Allah and provide Islamic rulings on life's challenges. However, almost all of them are not trained doctors or mental health professionals.

Confusing the role of a religious cleric with that of a medical doctor, a licensed therapist or psychologist can be a disservice to both your mental health and to your religion. A mental health professional is trained to understand the complexities of the human mind, diagnose conditions and provide specific, evidence-based strategies to help you cope with and overcome depression. Seeking professional help is not a sign of a lack of iman, but rather a smart decision to get the right kind of help. It is also rewarded by Allah.

You don't go to a religious scholar for treatment when you have a physical illness such as cancer or asthma. You don't go to a medical doctor for advice when you have doubts about Allah or struggle to wake up for Fajr prayer. In the same way, you shouldn't go to a religious scholar for advice when you have depression.

Misconception #4: Depression Isn't A Real Illness, It's Just Sadness (Huzn)

There is a big difference between sadness and depression. Sadness, or huzn in Arabic, is a normal human emotion. It's a temporary state that comes and goes, often in response to a specific event, like the loss of a loved one or a difficult situation.

Depression, on the other hand, is a clinical condition. It’s a persistent state of low mood accompanied by other symptoms like changes in your brain chemistry, loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed, changes in appetite and sleep, and feelings of worthlessness. A clinical diagnosis of depression is a serious issue that goes much deeper than just feeling down. It has a real impact on your brain and body and it's a medical issue that needs to be treated as such.

Leaving depression untreated is serious and can end in self-harm and suicide, may Allah protect us from this.

Misconception #5: Taking Treatment For Depression Is A Sign Of Weakness

There is a stigma in many communities around taking treatment for mental health issues. People think it's wrong to get treatment for mental illness; they believe it means they are "crazy." This couldn't be further from the truth.

The truth is that treatment for depression, such as therapy or medication, works by healing the brain or correcting chemical imbalances in the brain. They are often a vital part of the healing process, allowing your brain to function more effectively. It's like taking insulin for diabetes or getting surgery to remove a tumour. It’s a medical intervention for a medical problem. Taking treatment for depression is an act of self-care that is rewarded by Allah. You are taking care of the body that Allah gave you.

Your Path to Healing

Overcoming these misconceptions is the first step on your journey to healing. It's about changing your mindset and accepting that mental health is just as important as physical health and spiritual health. The best treatment for depression combines clinical psychology and modern medicine with Islamic practices.

 Your healing journey is a testament to your resilience and your trust in Allah's plan. By combining Islam with practical, evidence-based tools, you can not only heal from depression but also become a source of strength and inspiration for others.