ABSTRACT

This chapter delves into the intricate realm of psycho-spiritual afflictions and their profound impact on mental health and overall well-being. It offers a comprehensive analysis of the diverse manifestations of spiritual affliction, shedding light on their presence in clinical practice. The discussion encompasses a wide spectrum, including religious obsessive-compulsive disorder or scrupulosity, the concept of the evil eye, black magic, and jinn possession. Within the framework of this chapter, readers will find detailed descriptions of various types of possession, alongside an exploration of the symptoms and effects of spiritual affliction. Importantly, this examination is bolstered by evidence-based studies, particularly focusing on the intersection of jinn possession and mental health. As a culmination of this discourse, the chapter draws essential conclusions. It offers a holistic perspective on the spiritual challenges faced by Muslims globally, highlighting how beliefs embedded within the Islamic faith intricately interweave with the bio-psychosocial approach to managing psychological and psychiatric disorders. Furthermore, it unravels the nuanced convergence between the classification of symptoms and the often-blurred boundaries that exist between jinn possession and mental health.