ABSTRACT
On a global level, many countries face enormous challenges in the prevention and promotion of mental health, and in the provision of culturally appropriate mental health services to marginalised and vulnerable groups, including Muslim communities. The need to give the marginalised mental health a higher priority in health and social policy is beyond dispute. The significant growth of Muslim communities globally has increased the prevalence of mental health problems as a result of immigration, Islamophobia, microagression, hostility; and multiple discrimination based on place of origin, racial and national stereotypes. In addition, there has been an unprecedented upsurge in the number of refugees on a global scale. Service provision and treatment interventions need to take account of the cultural and religious factors and the worldview of Muslim patients. However, having heightened awareness and understanding of Islam and Islamic culture does not mean dealing with overly simplified summaries of Islam, and health practices risk reinforcing stereotypes and prejudices. The stigma of mental health problems continues to be a major barrier for individuals and families in seeking help; disclosure of mental illness is considered ‘shameful,’ and families are rejected and isolated for their association with mental health problems. The intervention strategies in mental health should actually be seen from a broader perspective so that it covers the promotion of mental health, the provision of mental health education, psychosocial, pharmacological and spiritual interventions. Research should be at the forefront in the developmental process in the provision of culturally congruent services for Muslims. The issue of the engagement of traditional healers in the formal mental healthcare system alongside mental health professionals has been debated and discussed for several decades. Despite the relative of the importance of Imams and faith healers in the psycho-spiritual dimension of health, there are potential conflicts between Imams, traditional healers and the medical establishment. There are already identified challenges facing mental health practitioners; Muslim scholars and clinicians need to focus on an effective strategy in order to meet the mental health needs of Muslim patients.
