EP 1 | Between Faith and Feeling: Mental Health & Being Muslim with Areej Arif

What does it mean to struggle with your mental health while holding onto your faith? And how can we create Muslim communities where people feel safe talking about what they're going through? In this episode of Minara Media, we speak with Areej Arif, psychologist and founder of Alif Wellbeing and Development, about the intersection of mental health, Islam, family and community. We discuss the impact of social media and comparison, how to respond when a child is struggling, common misconceptions about psychologists, and why seeking professional help doesn't mean something is wrong with you. Areej also explores Western and Islamic psychology, lessons from the Seerah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, and spiritual and practical approaches to wellbeing. This is a conversation about compassion, self-understanding and recognising that faith does not mean we will never struggle. Sometimes, seeking help is an important part of moving forward.

In this episode: Mental health awareness and stigma in Muslim communities Parenting, family support and men's mental health Understanding emotional triggers and therapy Faith, Islamic psychology and spiritual wellbeing Practical ways to care for ourselves and support others

If you've ever struggled to find the words to talk about mental health, or wanted to better support someone you love, this conversation is for you. If you or someone you know is struggling, you don't have to go through it alone. Reaching out to a trusted person or qualified mental health professional can be an important first step.

Support & Resources If you need someone to talk to: * 1737 — Free call or text to speak with a trained counsellor, anytime. * Lifeline: 0800 543 354 or free text 4357 (HELP) * Samaritans: 0800 726 666 — Confidential support for anyone experiencing loneliness or emotional distress. * Depression Helpline: 0800 111 757 or free text 4202 * Healthline: 0800 611 116 — Health advice from experienced health professionals. * Depression.org.nz — Information and resources for depression and mental health.

For children and young people: * Youthline: 0800 376 633 or free text 234. Webchat and other support are available through Youthline. * What's Up: 0800 942 8787 — Support for young people aged 5–19 and their parents, whānau and friends. * The Lowdown — Support and information around hauora, identity, culture and mental health. * Aunty Dee — A free online tool to help work through problems. * SPARX — An online game designed to help young people develop skills for managing difficult emotions. * Headstrong — A free app helping young people navigate everyday challenges.

About Aleph Wellbeing Aleph Wellbeing provides culturally sensitive wellbeing and therapeutic support, with a focus on creating a safe space for ethnic minorities to navigate mental health alongside their culture, identity, beliefs and lived experiences.

Follow Aleph Wellbeing https://www.instagram.com/alephwellbeing/ https://sites.google.com/alephwellbeing.co.nz/aleph-wellbeing-development ⸻ Credits Presenter: Qaahir Isaacs Videographer: Tafry Ambadar Editor: Aasiya Ather

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