Allah has created man with physical and mental needs. As much as the physical health of a person is important, the mental well-being of a person is also essential to function properly.
Islam is a religion of peace and spirituality. It teaches us how to spend our lives positively and peacefully. It also focuses on the mental health of individuals so that they can lead happy life.
Although, reciting the Holy Quran relieves stress, but there are some specific verses that console a sad heart and give hope:
1. Faith in Allah Almighty
As Muslims, we should have Faith in Allah, that whenever hardships come upon us, He will be with us and help us get through it.
Allah Ta’ala says in the Quran:
“Do not, then, either lose heart or grieve: for you shall surely gain the upper hand if you are true men of faith.” (3:139)
“Our Lord is Allah,” and then remain steadfast, the angels descend upon them, saying, “Do not fear, nor grieve. Rather, rejoice in the good news of Paradise, which you have been promised.” (41:30)
These ayat suggest that we should place our complete faith in Allah, and not be disheartened, as those who believe in Allah will be blessed in this world and the Akhirah.
2. Allah is the Hearing the Knowing
When a person is in a bad mental state, he/she wants to have someone closer to him/her. The person wants surety that he/she is not alone and has support.
Through the Quran, Allah SWT says in various ayaat that He is with the believer and He knows and hears everything and will take care of it.
” (O Prophet!) Let not the utterances of the opponents distress you. Indeed all honour is Allah’s. He is All-Hearing, All-Knowing.” (10:65)
”So be patient with your Lord’s decree, for you are truly under Our watchful Eyes.” (52:48)
3. Quran Relieves Depression and Sorrow
Our Prophet PBUH was a man of great strength but he also used to become sad when disbelievers teased him or in case of any sorrowful incident. Allah SWT used to send him revelations that don’t be sad. Allah is with him.
”And they will say, “Praise be to Allah, Who has kept away from us all causes of sorrow.” (35:34)
“Verily in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest.” (13:28)
Once there was no revelation for a long time, so the Prophet was very depressed. But Allah SWT sent the revelation of Surah Ad Duha (93rd Surah) to soothe him.
That’s why Quran is very important in our lives we should recite it and memorize it.
4. Allah is With the Patient
Humans are impatient creatures. They want everything according to their way quickly, which makes them anxious and worried.
”Indeed, humankind was created impatient:” (70:19)
But Allah has advised us to be patient and believe in His plans:
” But they plan, and Allāh plans. And Allāh is the best of planners.” (8:30)
Persevering patience is one the greatest qualities of a Muslim and has a great reward. Allah has mentioned it numerous times in the Quran. Allah helps those who are patient and don’t lose hope.
” O believers! Seek comfort in patience and prayer. Allah is truly with those who are patient.” (2:153)
Allah also promises ease after hardships and tests.
“So, surely with hardship comes ease” (94:5)
5. Mental Stress is a Part of Human Nature
Stress and anxiety are a normal part of human nature. A person is not always in the best of spirits as some events can get to him/her and make him/her sad and depressed.
So, mankind has been created with this natural weakness and everyone suffers from it in a different manner and degree.
”Indeed, mankind was created anxious:” (70:19)
The Prophets had to face grief in their lives which is mentioned in the holy Quran. Yaqub AS had to face long years of separation from his son, Ayub AS had to wait many years before he could have an offspring.
Our beloved Prophet had to face the offensive behaviour of the Kuffar. There are numerous examples of the tests that the Prophets faced.
But all stayed firm on their faith and stayed patient. The same is expected of us.
” We will certainly test you with a touch of fear and famine and loss of property, life, and crops. Give good news to those who patiently endure—” (2:155)
6. Verses to Relieve Stress
The holy Quran itself is a great stress reliever, but there are certain Surahs and verses of the Quran that are recommended to recite in times of distress. Some are:
The 11 verses of Surah Ad Duha are very good for soothing the heart.
لَا حَوْلَ وَلَا قُوَّةَ إِلَّا بِٱللَّٰهِ
”There is no power nor strength except by God.”
لَآ اِلٰهَ اِلَّآ اَنتَ سُبحٰنَکَ اِنِّی کُنتُ مِنَ الظَّالِمِینَ
”There is no god but You (O My Lord!). Glory be to You! Verily, I have been of the wrongdoers. ”
لا تَقْنَطُوا مِن رَّحْمَةِ اللَّهِ
” Don’t lose hope in Allah’s mercy”
(Courtesy: Al-Islam Guide)
