Learn about Anxiety
Anxiety is a natural human emotion that Allah (swt) has created within us to alert us to danger and keep us safe. It becomes a concern when it starts to interfere with our daily life, relationships, or ability to function.
Islam acknowledges emotional experiences like fear, worry, and distress.
Even prophets felt fear—Musa (as) said: “Indeed, I fear that they will deny me” (Qur’an 26:12).
Acknowledging anxiety is not a weakness of faith—it’s a sign to seek help and take care of ourselves.
"Verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest."
Experiencing anxiety is not a sign of weak faith. Many prophets faced emotional distress.
What is Anxiety
Anxiety is the body’s response to stress, uncertainty, or perceived threats.
It may involve worrying excessively about future events or outcomes, often without a clear reason.
It’s normal to feel anxious before a big decision, exam, or public speaking, but it can become problematic if it’s constant, overwhelming, or impacts everyday life.
Anxiety Signs and Symptoms
Anxiety can affect every part of a person—body, mind, emotions, behaviours, and even spiritual connection. Understanding how it shows up can help us respond with compassion and support, both for ourselves and others.
Types of Anxiety
Do I have anxiety?
Ask yourself the following questions:
- Do I feel anxious or nervous most days?
- Is worry interfering with my work, sleep, or relationships?
- Do I avoid situations out of fear or panic?
- Do I struggle to calm my mind or body, even when I make dua or engage in self-care?
Note: Feeling anxious doesn’t mean you’re weak in faith. Even the Prophet ﷺ experienced sadness and worry, and taught us to seek support through both du’a and action.
How to Support Students with Anxiety
- Listen without judgment – Let them speak and feel heard.
- Build trust and connection – Relationships ease anxiety.
- Encourage mindfulness and breathing – Try "dhikr-based grounding" (e.g. saying “SubhanAllah” with slow breaths).
- Provide routines and predictability – Structure can reduce fear
- Educate them about emotions – Use age-appropriate resources.
- Normalise help-seeking – Let them know it’s okay to get support.
- Remind them Allah is near – “Do not grieve; indeed Allah is with us” (Qur’an 9:40)
Where to Get Support for Yourself with Anxiety
- Book a session with Afiya EAP for one-on-one culturally and spiritually responsive counselling.
- Speak to someone who understands your faith and values – our Muslim mental health professionals are trained in both Islamic and mainstream approaches.
- Try Islamic-informed wellbeing techniques – such as tafakkur (reflection), muraqabah (awareness of Allah), dhikr (remembrance), and (shukr (gratitude).
- Don’t wait—early support is best. Seeking help is part of ihsan (excellence in caring for oneself and others).