Dr. Muhammad Mahtab Hossain Mazed :
Every year on October 10, World Mental Health Day is observed globally to raise awareness about mental health.
The day aims to inform people about mental health issues, increase awareness about mental disorders, and promote ways to achieve positive mental well-being.
This day reminds us that mental health is as important as physical health.
Human life is composed of two essential components: The body and the mind. When the body is unwell, physical abilities are limited; when the mind is unwell, inner peace is lost.
In the modern era, opportunities for physical healthcare have greatly expanded, but mental health is still largely neglected worldwide. Yet, mental health directly affects quality of life, social relationships, and work performance.
Understanding Mental Health
Mental health is not merely the absence of illness but a state of overall psychological, emotional, and social well-being. It affects our thoughts, feelings, relationships, decision-making, and ability to cope with stress.
Life without mental wellness can be unproductive and filled with despair.
Mental Health: A Global Concern
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 300 million people worldwide suffer from depression or anxiety-related disorders, impairing productivity, creativity, and quality of life.
In Bangladesh, although comprehensive statistics are lacking, research indicates that 19% of adults and 14.5% of children and adolescents experience mental health issues.
WHO also reports that every 40 seconds, one person dies by suicide, making it the second leading cause of death among 14–29-year-old. In Bangladesh, approximately 14,000 people die by suicide each year, primarily due to family conflicts, financial crises, deteriorating relationships, and depression.
Despite only 0.5% of the government health budget being allocated to mental health and a shortage of trained mental health professionals, awareness is gradually increasing.
Social media, educational institutions, and public health campaigns are helping people understand and address mental health concerns.
World Mental Health Day reminds us that dealing with stress and anxiety is not only a personal responsibility but also a social and national one. Support from family, teachers, friends, and colleagues is crucial for maintaining mental well-being.
Islamic Perspective on Reducing Mental Stress
Islam provides a holistic approach to life, emphasizing not only physical health but also mental tranquility.
The Qur’an and Hadith guide believers on how to stay free from depression, anxiety, and mental stress. Some key practices from an Islamic perspective include:
1. Recitation of the Qur’an and Remembrance of Allah
Reciting the Qur’an brings peace to the heart.
“Verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest.” (Surah Ar-Ra’d: 28) Regular recitation alleviates fear, worry, and despair.
Daily remembrance of Allah induces calmness and increases self-confidence, similar to modern mindfulness practices.
2. Importance of Salah (Prayer)
Salah is a primary source of peace for believers. “And seek help through patience and prayer.” (Surah Al-Baqarah: 45) The Prophet (PBUH) prayed even in difficult times. Regular prayer provides inner stability, reduces despair, and strengthens moral and social responsibilities.
3. Istighfar (Seeking Forgiveness)
Regularly seeking forgiveness eases mental stress. The Prophet (PBUH) said Allah relieves the worries of those who frequently ask for forgiveness (Abu Dawood). Istighfar promotes tranquility and reminds us of Allah’s mercy.
4. Sending Blessings on the Prophet (Darood Sharif)
Reciting Darood brings Allah’s mercy and peace of mind. The Prophet (PBUH) taught that frequent Darood recitation alleviates distress and sins (Tirmidhi).
5. Belief in Qadr (Divine Decree)
Everything—happiness, suffering, wealth, and health—is in Allah’s hands. “If Allah touches you with harm, none can remove it except Him.” (Surah Yunus: 107) Understanding this provides mental stability and reduces despair, aligning with modern control theory in psychology.
6. Avoiding Despair
Tests and trials are part of life. “We will surely test you with fear, hunger, and loss of wealth; but give glad tidings to the patient.” (Surah Al-Baqarah: 155–156) A believer never gives in to despair, relying instead on patience and trust in Allah.
7. Remembrance of Death and the Hereafter
Remembering death and the afterlife puts worldly suffering in perspective. “They will be in a fleeting state of a single evening or morning.” (Surah An-Nazi’at: 46) This awareness helps reduce unnecessary stress.
8. Reliance on Allah (Tawakkul)
“And whoever relies upon Allah – then He is sufficient for him.” (Surah At-Talaq: 3) Trust in Allah reduces anxiety and fear, offering mental peace, especially during uncertain situations.
9. Supplication (Dua)
Dua is a powerful tool for mental tranquility. The Prophet (PBUH) said, “Dua is the essence of worship.” (Tirmidhi) For removing distress: “O Allah, I seek refuge in You from worry and grief…” (Bukhari, Muslim). Regular recitation brings calm and reduces despair.
10. Social Relationships and Human Compassion
Maintaining strong family, neighborly, and societal ties is essential for mental health. “Whoever fears Allah, He will guide him to the right path.” (Surah Taha: 123) Psychology also confirms that socially connected individuals experience lower stress and greater happiness.
11. Diet and Physical Health
Islam emphasizes balanced diet, adequate rest, and regular exercise. Modern studies show that Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and probiotics can improve mental health.
12. Meditation, Prayer, and Reflection (Tafakkur)
Islamic meditation and reflection are akin to modern mindfulness techniques. Daily Qur’an recitation, prayer, and contemplation promote inner peace.
Conclusion
World Mental Health Day reminds us that stress and anxiety are not merely personal issues but also social and national responsibilities.
Islam provides a comprehensive way of life that nurtures inner stability and tranquility. Following the Qur’an and Sunnah can help individuals build mental resilience, avoid despair, and enjoy a peaceful life.
May Allah protect all humanity from personal, familial, social, and professional stress? May He grant us the ability to live according to the guidance of the Qur’an and Sunnah. Ameen.
(The author is a Columnist & Researcher, Founder & Chairman, jatio rogi kallaya Society, Email: [email protected])
