Open family communication, professional treatment, and reliance on Allah are pathways to recovery
Sahil Majeed
Depression is a common human experience that affects many people, sometimes openly and sometimes silently. Even those who seem strong or confident can struggle with emotional pain. Depression does not define your faith or your worth. From my perspective, one of the main reasons behind depression today is the lack of time spent with family. In my own experience, whenever I feel low or emotionally exhausted, I return home and spend time with my family. Simply being with them, talking, laughing, and sharing helps me feel refreshed and peaceful again. Family creates a sense of belonging and emotional comfort that nothing else can replace. When a person is emotionally balanced, they should not only care for themselves but also make their family members smile and share both happiness and sorrow with them.
Islam provides a compassionate and realistic framework for understanding sadness and emotional pain. The Qur’an clearly acknowledges the weight of human struggle: “We have certainly created man in hardship.” (Surah Al-Balad, 90:4). This verse reminds us that difficulty is a part of life, not a punishment or a sign of failure. At the same time, Allah reassures us that hardship is never permanent: “Indeed, with hardship comes ease.” (Surah Ash-Sharh, 94:6). Holding onto this promise gives strength to keep moving forward, even when life feels overwhelming. A common misconception is that feeling depressed is a sign of weak faith. This is not true. The Qur’an and Hadith are filled with examples of prophets and righteous people who experienced deep sadness and emotional distress. Faith does not mean a life free from pain; rather, it teaches us how to face challenges with patience, hope, and trust in Allah’s plan while also taking practical steps toward healing. Making du‘a and engaging in dhikr bring the heart closer to Allah, filling it with calm, hope, and inner light.
Another major root cause of depression is constantly comparing oneself to others. When we compare our lives, success, or looks with those of others, we feel unworthy and dissatisfied. Islam teaches gratitude and contentment, reminding us that everyone has a different path and test. Along with this, expecting too much from people often leads to disappointment. A person should place their expectations only in Allah, as true peace comes from reliance on Him alone. I strongly believe that emotional sharing within the family plays a crucial role in preventing depression. When a boy or girl shares their thoughts, worries, and daily experiences with their parents regularly, the chances of falling into depression are greatly reduced. Open communication builds emotional strength and reduces loneliness.
Depression is not only emotional but also a medical condition. According to the medical review article “Untreated Depression,” written by Debra Fulghum Bruce, PhD, and medically reviewed by Melinda Ratini, MS, DO (February 29, 2024), untreated clinical depression is a major public health concern. The article explains that untreated depression increases the risk of harmful behaviours such as alcohol and drug abuse. It can damage personal relationships, reduce work performance, and make it more difficult for individuals to recover from physical illnesses. Clinical depression affects mood, thoughts, sleep patterns, appetite, and self-perception. It is emphasised that depression is not a condition a person can overcome through willpower alone; without appropriate treatment, symptoms may persist for months or even years.
The World Health Organization (WHO) provides alarming statistics about the global burden of depression. An estimated 4% of the world’s population experiences depression, including 5.7% of adults (4.6% men and 6.9% women). Approximately 332 million people worldwide suffer from depression. Depression is about 1.5 times more common in women than in men, and more than 10% of pregnant women and women who have just given birth experience depression. In 2021, an estimated 727,000 people died by suicide, making it the third leading cause of death among 15–29-year-olds. The WHO also highlights a major treatment gap: in high-income countries, only about one-third of people with depression receive mental health treatment. Barriers include a lack of investment in mental health, a shortage of trained professionals, and social stigma.
Medical evidence also shows that depression negatively affects physical health. Studies involving patients recovering from strokes or heart disease reveal that those with untreated depression often struggle to follow medical advice and cope with their illness. Research also indicates an increased risk of death in the months following a heart attack among patients with untreated major depression.
Sleep disruption is a common symptom of untreated depression. Many individuals experience insomnia, while others may sleep excessively yet still feel exhausted. Poor sleep contributes to fatigue, low energy, and difficulty concentrating, symptoms that further worsen depressive states. Untreated depression can also lead to weight changes, irritability, hopelessness, and emotional withdrawal. The article also discusses the strong link between depression and substance abuse, particularly among adolescents and young to middle-aged men. It emphasises that individuals facing both depression and addiction often require specialised treatment due to a higher risk of suicide. Men with untreated depression may show anger, frustration, or risky behaviour rather than expressing sadness. Many men do not realise that physical symptoms such as headaches, digestive issues, or chronic pain may indicate depression, leading to delayed diagnosis.
Untreated depression is described as a disabling condition that affects work life, family relationships, and social functioning. It contributes to significant economic loss due to absenteeism and reduced productivity. Family members of depressed individuals often experience emotional stress, and involving them in treatment can improve outcomes. Depression carries a serious risk of suicide. Most suicide cases involve individuals with depression, often combined with substance abuse. Early recognition, professional intervention, and social support are critical, as more than 80% of people with clinical depression can recover successfully when appropriate treatment, such as psychotherapy, medication, or advanced therapies, is provided.
To heal from depression, it is important to strengthen your connection with Allah through prayer, du‘a, and dhikr. Spending time with family and sharing emotions honestly can provide emotional support and reduce loneliness. It is also essential to stop comparing yourself with others, trust Allah alone, and not place your expectations in people. Seeking professional help when needed is not a sign of weakness but a step of wisdom. Above all, be kind to yourself and those around you. Depression does not mean you are weak or sinful. It is a challenge, and Islam teaches us to face it with patience, hope, and action. With faith, family support, and professional help, recovery is possible. Remember: Allah’s mercy is always near.
The writer is a Vet student (FVSc) at SKUAST-K
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