Definition of Mental Illness and Its Relation to Faith

Question

What is the definition of mental illness? And is it really the work of the devil as some people believe? [AR_ID:3374]

Answer 1

Peace be upon you.

Doctors define mental illness or psychological disorders as conditions that affect an individual's performance, emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. These disorders can interfere with a person's ability to carry out daily tasks, maintain social and work relationships, and manage other important aspects of life.

These illnesses can be categorized into two types:

First Category: Biological mental illnesses, which arise from hormonal imbalances in the body or genetic factors.

This category of illnesses is unrelated to religion or faith; it affects both believers and non-believers alike.

Second Category: Disorders resulting from economic or social pressures, family conflicts, and other factors, which also affect both believers and non-believers.

Thus, a believer is as susceptible to mental illnesses as a non-believer, just as is the case with physical illnesses.

However, it is important to note that faith can create a high level of psychological and spiritual stability (as stated in the Quran: "Indeed, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest"). It is clear that with psychological stability, the incidence of mental illnesses decreases significantly, depending on the strength of faith and the spiritual elevation of the believer. It is known that believers vary in their levels of faith; a weaker believer may experience a type of mental illness and will certainly be rewarded for it.

May you be successful in all that is good.

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Sources:

(1) Dr. Muntasir Abdul Wahab, President of the Egyptian Psychiatric Association.