PSY 123: Mental Health and Well-being in Islam is an in-depth 14-week course designed to explore the concepts of mental health and well-being from an Islamic perspective. This course delves into the rich Islamic tradition, integrating Quranic teachings, Hadith, and Islamic scholarship with contemporary psychological understanding to offer a unique approach to mental health issues. Students will explore how Islam views emotional and psychological well-being, the importance of spiritual health, and the strategies it proposes for coping with mental health challenges.
Over two months, participants will examine topics such as the Islamic understanding of the self (nafs), the heart (qalb), and the soul (ruh), and their roles in mental health. The course will cover the prophetic guidance on dealing with sadness, anxiety, and stress, and how these emotional states are addressed within the framework of Islamic teachings. Through case studies, historical accounts, and modern psychology, students will learn about the prevention and intervention strategies for mental health issues, emphasizing the balance between spiritual, physical, and mental aspects of health.
Overall Objectives for this Course:
By the end of this course, you should be able to:
- Understand the concepts of mental health and well-being within an Islamic framework.
- Identify the role of spiritual practices and beliefs in promoting psychological well-being.
- Analyze the psychological wisdom in the teachings of the Quran and Hadith related to mental health.
- Evaluate the contribution of Islamic scholars to the understanding and treatment of mental illnesses.
- Apply Islamic principles and practices in the context of modern psychological therapy and counseling.
- Discuss the importance of community and social support in Islamic teachings on mental health.
- Explore the Islamic perspective on common mental health disorders and their management.
- Reflect on personal mental health practices in light of Islamic teachings.
- Design a holistic Islamic approach to mental health that integrates spiritual, physical, and psychological dimensions.
- Critically assess contemporary issues in mental health from an Islamic viewpoint.
