If your body suffered an injury or fell ill, what would your first reaction be? Most likely it would be to go to the doctors and get help. However, why is this not our reaction when we suffer from anxiety, depression or any other mental health issue? The well-being of our mind is just as important as the well-being of our body.

Over seven million Canadians suffer from mental health issues each year. However, the stigma around mental health prevents many from seeking help. In fact, studies show that 40% of people suffering from depression or anxiety are prevented from seeking help due to the negative perceptions that surround those illnesses. And although the stigma of mental health spans across the world, it is highly formulated by different cultures.

In the Muslim community, mental illness is often perceived as a taboo subject. Shame, embarrassment, and fear of what others may think often prevent those within the community from seeking the help that they require. In addition to this, the fear of treatment, distrust in mental health care providers, fear of racism and language barriers also contribute to the lack of initiative in seeking mental health care.

There are many barriers that we need to overcome as a community and as a society in order to normalize mental health care, which is why Mental Illness Awareness Week, which takes place in the first week of October, is extremely important to starting the conversation on mental health and spreading awareness.

Other common misconceptions include the idea that those who suffer from mental illness aren’t “religious enough”, or lack faith in Allah. Many believe that today’s mental health issues are simply a test from Allah, and that having patience is the only way to make it through – and so the issues are left unaddressed. Many factors can contribute to mental illness, and such oversimplification of complex medical conditions is unfair and dismisses the potential role that mental health professionals can play in helping.

There are many barriers that we need to overcome as a community and as a society in order to normalize mental health care, which is why Mental Illness Awareness Week, which takes place in the first week of October, is extremely important to starting the conversation on mental health and spreading awareness.

How can you help break the stigma and normalize mental health in your community?

  • Educate. Learn the facts about mental illness and start the conversation with others to spread awareness.
  • Change Your Attitude. Become aware of your attitude and behaviour towards mental illness and how it is influenced by society. Challenge the myths, misconceptions and stereotypes.
  • Be Aware. Mental illness does not define a person. Learn the signs of when someone may need help, and encourage them to seek the help of a mental health professional.
  • Empower and Support. Let people know that you are there for them. Be a source of empowerment and support in the lives of those struggling or those who have previously struggled with mental health.

Changing society and our community for the better is hard and it does not happen overnight – but when we all come together, we can bring about a new normal and create safe spaces for those who really need it.

Sources: 

CAMH – https://www.camh.ca/en/driving-change/addressing-stigma

Khalil Center Canada – https://quod.lib.umich.edu/j/jmmh/10381607.0013.201?view=text;rgn=main