Learn about Depression
Depression is more than sadness—it’s a deep emotional pain that can affect your energy, thinking, relationships, and connection to life. It can also affect your connection with Allah (swt) and your sense of self.
Islam recognises emotional hardship. Even Prophet Yaqub (as) wept and grieved so much for his son Yusuf that he lost his eyesight (Qur’an 12:84).
Feeling low or struggling mentally does not mean someone has weak iman—it means they are human.
“And We have certainly created man and know what his soul whispers to him, and We are closer to him than [his] jugular vein”
You are never alone.
What is Depression?
Depression is a mental health condition that affects how a person feels, thinks, and behaves.
It often involves persistent sadness or numbness, loss of interest in life, and difficulty functioning in daily activities.
It may last for weeks, months, or even longer if left untreated.
Depression Signs and Symptoms
Depression 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.
Physical Signs
- Constant fatigue or low energy
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Difficulty sleeping or oversleeping
- Aches and pains with no medical cause
- Slowed movements or speech
Emotional Signs
- Feeling sad, empty, or hopeless most of the day
- Feeling worthless or excessive guilt
- Loss of interest in things once enjoyed
- Irritability or frequent crying
Cognitive Signs
- Trouble concentrating or making decisions
- Negative thoughts about self or the future
- Feeling like a burden
- Suicidal thoughts or thoughts about not wanting to live
Behavioural Signs
- Withdrawing from family, friends, or work
- Avoiding responsibilities
- Neglecting personal hygiene or daily tasks
- Losing motivation or purpose
Spiritual Signs
- Feeling distant from Allah
- Difficulty making dua or praying
- Feeling unworthy of Allah’s mercy
- Guilt about not doing enough religiously
- Believing your suffering is a punishment
Types of Depression
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD
Persistent sadness, loss of interest, and other symptoms for at least two weeks.
Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)
Long-term, lower-level depression lasting 2 years or more.
Postnatal/Postpartum Depression
Depression after childbirth, affecting both women and sometimes men.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Depression that occurs during particular seasons (e.g. winter).
Situational Depression
Triggered by a major life event (e.g. divorce, death, trauma).
Atypical Depression
Includes mood reactivity and increased appetite/sleep.
Do I Have Depression?
Ask yourself:
- Do I feel sad or numb most days?
- Have I lost interest in things that used to bring joy?
- Do I struggle to get out of bed or get through the day?
- Do I feel disconnected from Allah or from others?
- Do I feel like a burden, or wish I could disappear?
If you answered “yes” to several of these, it may be helpful to speak to one of our AfiyaEAP counsellors.
Depression in Children and Young People
Children and youth often don’t have the words to express depression. Signs might include:
- Irritability, anger, or moodiness
- Poor school performance
- Sleep or appetite changes
- Social withdrawal
- Frequent complaints of being “bored” or “tired”
- Expressing hopelessness or wanting to give up
- Support social inclusion – Gently reintegrate them into school or community life.
The Prophet ﷺ was known to sit, speak, and cry with children—always validating their emotions.
How to Support Students with Depression
- Listen without trying to fix – Give space for their voice and pain.
- Provide encouragement – Reinforce their strengths and worth.
- Involve support services early – Refer to school counsellors or the Wellbeing team.
- Incorporate gentle Islamic reminders – Emphasise hope, dua, and Allah’s mercy.
- Teach emotional literacy – Help students name and understand their feelings.
- Create moments of spiritual connection – Uplift, don’t guilt-trip.
- Support social inclusion – Gently reintegrate them into school or community life.
Where to Get Support for Yourself with Depression
- Speak to a Muslim therapist or counsellor at Afiya EAP – culturally and spiritually safe support.
- Reach out to someone you trust – you don’t have to carry this alone.
- Re-establish your connection with Allah gently – start with simple dhikr or short prayers.
- Consider therapy as self-care, not shame – the Prophet ﷺ encouraged seeking cures: “Make use of medical treatment…” (Bukhari).
- Book a confidential session – Afiya offers phone, online counselling support.