Mental Health Issues in Society: An Islamic Perspective

Mental health is one of the most overlooked issues in today’s world. People often misunderstand it, ignoring the fact that mental health is as important as physical health. Mental health issues happen when a person’s emotional, psychological, or social well-being is disturbed. A person may feel constant sadness, stress, anxiety, hopelessness, or lack of motivation. These issues affect how people think, feel, and behave in their daily lives. Unfortunately, instead of receiving care and support, many people suffering from mental health challenges are judged, ignored, or labeled as weak. Some even assume that a person is only hiding behind the “mental health” excuse instead of facing life, which worsens the situation.

How Society Views Mental Health
One of the biggest problems is that society does not take mental health as a priority. People rarely try to help those going through such struggles. Instead, they judge them as being fragile or incapable of handling life’s challenges. In many cases, it is other humans who cause emotional harm through harsh words, constant criticism, lack of empathy, or unfair expectations. This emotional damage builds up, pushing individuals into depression or anxiety.

The Islamic Perspective on Mental Health
Islam teaches kindness, empathy, and understanding. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of easing another person’s burden. In Islam, caring for a person’s emotional state is part of faith. Allah reminds us in the Qur’an: “Do not oppress yourselves nor one another” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:279). Oppression is not only physical; it includes emotional and psychological harm as well. Hurting someone with words or actions that lead to sadness or depression is also a form of injustice.

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “A Muslim is the one from whose tongue and hands other Muslims are safe” (Sahih Bukhari, Sahih Muslim). This hadith highlights the importance of protecting others from harm, including emotional harm. Islam does not consider mental health struggles as weakness; rather, it encourages patience (sabr), reliance on Allah (tawakkul), and seeking help when needed.

How Mental Health Issues Can Be Avoided
Since many mental health challenges are caused by people hurting each other emotionally, the first step is to be careful with our words and actions. Not belittling others, not mocking them, and not overburdening them with expectations can prevent emotional damage. Supporting those who struggle and showing empathy can help them recover faster. Islam encourages believers to spread mercy and kindness. A kind word, a smile, or a gentle gesture can uplift someone’s mood and ease their mental burden.

Conclusion
Mental health is real, and it should be treated as a priority. People facing it are not weak but are struggling with battles unseen. Islam teaches us to be a source of comfort and not a cause of harm. By being compassionate, understanding, and mindful of our words, we can help reduce the emotional wounds that often lead to depression and anxiety. A healthier society is not just one free of physical illness but also one where mental and emotional well-being is respected and protected.