Mental health is an area of health which is often stigmatised in society. As a doctor I have come across many patients, colleagues, friends and family members who have a mental health illness. This has been exacerbated with Covid-19 and the prolonged lockdowns, social distancing, and reduced mental health services available. During the pandemic, even I had feelings of anxiety and loneliness this past year.

As a Muslim, I feel mental illness is often misunderstood in the Muslim community, and awareness of treatment options and coping mechanisms is lacking. This can lead to Muslims dismissing their own mental health, or their loved ones' mental health. Many will blame lack of imaan, superstition, or jinn-possession, instead of seeking help, leading to prolonged suffering in silence. 

This Ramadhan, I want to raise money for the organisation Inspirited Minds. I admire the work they are doing to support Muslims going through mental health illness, using knowledge of Islamic teachings, as well as raising awareness of the importance of mental health.

Abu Huraira reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “Whoever relieves the hardship of a believer in this world, Allah will relieve his hardship on the Day of Resurrection. Whoever helps ease one in difficulty, Allah will make it easy for him in this world and in the Hereafter..."

Please donate generously!

More info on their website: https://www.inspiritedminds.org.uk/