Overcoming depression in Islam is a journey that involves addressing both the spiritual state of the heart and the psychological well-being of the mind. Many individuals suffer from deep despair caused by feelings of inadequacy, the loss of youth or physical attractiveness, and jealousy toward others. This article addresses how a Muslim can navigate these dark feelings, specifically when they stem from a desire for external validation.
The Trap of Seeking External Validation
A common source of distress for many young people is the loss of attention they once received, particularly from the opposite sex. It is crucial to understand that seeking self-worth through the admiration of non-Mahrams is a spiritual trap.
In Islam, the believer’s confidence should not be tethered to how many people “stare” or admire them unlawfully. In fact, the lowering of the gaze is a command for both men and women. If one feels depressed because they are no longer attracting the sinful attention of others, this indicates a need to realign one’s heart. The believer should find comfort in the sight of Allah, not the gaze of His creation.
Jealousy (Hasad) and Its Cure
Feeling hatred or jealousy toward a friend because they receive more attention is a disease of the heart that consumes one’s peace.
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) warned against this, saying:
“Beware of envy, for envy devours good deeds just as fire devours firewood.” (Sunan Abi Dawud 4903)
To overcome this, a person should pray for the one they are jealous of. Supplicating for their increase breaks the cycle of hatred in the heart and brings peace.
Seeking Professional and Spiritual Help
Scholars emphasize that depression can be a clinical condition. Therefore, one should seek professional help to determine if they are suffering from a psychosomatic disease or clinical depression. Consulting a family doctor or a mental health professional is a recommended step in the healing process.
Simultaneously, one must strengthen their spiritual defenses.
- Consistency in Prayer: Salah is the lifeline to the Creator. A person cannot protect themselves from the whispers of Satan or the depths of despair without aligning themselves with Allah.
- Good Company: One should strive to befriend those who are conscious of Allah and who inspire good thoughts, rather than those who focus on vanity.
Supplications (Duas) for Distress
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) taught specific supplications to combat anxiety and depression.
1. For Protection from Anxiety and Debt
“O Allah, I seek refuge in You from worry and grief, from incapacity and laziness, from cowardice and miserliness, from being overpowered by debt and from being overpowered by (other) men.” (Sahih al-Bukhari 6369)
2. The Master Supplication for Forgiveness (Sayyidul-Istighfar) It is recommended to recite this in the morning and evening:
“O Allah, You are my Lord, none has the right to be worshipped except You, You created me and I am Your servant, and I abide to Your covenant and promise [to honor it] as best I can, I take refuge in You from the evil of which I committed, I acknowledge Your favor upon me and I acknowledge my sin, so forgive me, for verily none can forgive sins except You.” (Sahih al-Bukhari 6306)
3. Seeking Refuge from Satanic Whispers
“My Lord, I seek refuge in You from the incitements of the devils, And I seek refuge in You, my Lord, lest they be present with me.” (Surah Al-Mu’minun, 23:97-98)
By combining professional assistance with these spiritual remedies and shifting one’s focus from the creation to the Creator, a person can find the strength to overcome these challenges.
