As I sat across

As I sat across from my client as she was narrating to me the power a specific prayer had, I realized something profound: A closeness to God and feeling His presence in dark times can assist us in overcoming challenging situations. The closeness can provide a sense of calm, that the omnipotent Creator is ever watchful over what is happening and is taking care of us. As my client described the positive impact that simply reciting this particular prayer had on her, I was certain that this connection to prayer was a valuable resource in her life and could be a strong handhold for others as well.

The connection between religion and mental health has been discussed in detail in the literature. Research published in the Indian Journal of Psychiatry in 2013 discusses the positive relationship between religion and mental health. For instance, a person’s religiousness is related to decreased use of alcohol and drugs. Depending on a person’s religious commitment, these factors affect longevity since suicide rates and even suicidal ideation are lower in religious people. The overwhelming conclusion of these studies is that spirituality can be a significantly positive mental health resource, particularly in times of great distress.

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For Muslims, knowing that God is with us is a strong anchor in trying times. Not only does He reassure us that He is with us, but He also informs us that we have the strength to bear what we are enduring: “God does not burden any human being with more than he is well able to bear…” (Quran 2:286). This promise reassures us that God knows our strengths and capabilities and only gives us what we have the capacity to endure and overcome. Remembering these words and recognizing God’s presence in difficult times, such as a death in the family, the loss of a job, an anxiety attack, an illness, etc. assist us in overcoming these challenges. Internally, a switch goes on that we are not alone in our distress and there is an all-powerful being carrying us through. The strength that follows such a belief gives a person the ability to overcome.

God reminds us in the Quran that “those who believe, and whose hearts find satisfaction in the remembrance of God: for without doubt in the remembrance of God do hearts find satisfaction” (Quran 13:28). That remembrance of God is a source of comfort during times of agitation, distress, worry, and physical and emotional pain. It does not always appear so easily, such as turning to spirituality instead of vices when we are depressed or anxious, but practical steps can lead to the awareness of him and bring ease to distressed hearts. Examples of these include praying, taking a few deep breaths, journaling, meditating, yoga, and even something as simple as taking a hot bath.