ABSTRACT
With the growth of the population of Muslims, both indigenous and settlers, it is incumbent for health and social care institutions to develop a better understanding of the mental health needs and concerns of this community. Misunderstanding the worldview of the patient can lead to communication problems, ethical dilemmas and Eurocentric practices. In Western countries, given the current socio-political climate of Islamophobia, microaggressions, prejudices, hate crimes and social exclusion (social exclusion correlates with mental health problems), the psychological health of Muslim communities is under threat. The myriad conflicts in Middle Eastern countries have increased the incidence and prevalence of mental health problems with high rates of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, depression, anxiety and stress. Muslim patients express their symptoms of mental health problems in the form of physical symptoms. However, on a global scale, the perspective of mental health problems being attributed to demonological or metaphysical causes are dominant among both indigenous Muslims and Muslims living in the West even if it does not necessarily ‘fit’ with the normative beliefs of the host countries. Muslims attribute mental health problems to different phenomena, including evil eye possession by supernatural entities such as demons (Jinn) and magic (Sihr).The stigma of mental health problems continues to be a major barrier for individuals and families in seeking help. Often, Muslim individuals are stigmatised and families are rejected and isolated for their association with mental health problems, addiction and suicide. Muslims also are likely to face discrimination from community members when it comes to issues like marriage proposals, socialisation and business relationships. There is a need to foster communication and trust between Muslim faith leaders and mental health professionals to improve access to culturally appropriate mental health services.
