Do Not Lose Heart in Times of Adversity; Put Your Trust in Allah
Dr. Muhammad Mahtab Hossain Majed
World Suicide Prevention Day is observed globally every year on September 10. The main objective of the day is to raise awareness about suicide prevention, stand beside people facing mental distress, and strengthen the responsibilities of families and society in protecting lives.
When a person becomes overwhelmed by severe frustration, loneliness, humiliation, failure, relationship problems or various mental pressures, they need not condemnation but empathy, a safe environment, treatment, and mental and spiritual support.
From the Islamic perspective, human life is extremely valuable. Life is not created by humans themselves; it is a trust given by Almighty Allah. Therefore, even in moments of hardship, grief or despair, choosing to end one’s life is not permissible in Islam. At the same time, Islam does not leave people in the darkness of despair. Rather, it calls them toward Allah’s mercy, patience, prayer, mutual support and an optimistic life.
Life Is a Trust from Allah
Human life and death are under Allah’s control. The Holy Quran says:
“And do not kill yourselves. Indeed, Allah is ever Merciful to you.” (Surah An-Nisa: 29)
This verse clearly establishes the sanctity of human life and prohibits self-destruction. No matter how difficult a person’s circumstances may be, ending one’s own life is not an Islamic solution to problems.
The Holy Quran also says:
“And do not throw yourselves with your own hands into destruction.” (Surah Al-Baqarah: 195)
This instruction not only teaches people to refrain from self-destruction but also encourages them to take responsibility for their own safety and well-being.
Trust in Allah’s Mercy, Not Despair
Suffering and hardship are inevitable in life. But no crisis is permanent. Allah says in the Holy Quran:
“Indeed, with hardship comes ease. Indeed, with hardship comes ease.” (Surah Ash-Sharh: 5-6)
This verse brings a ray of hope during difficult times. Today’s suffering does not close all paths to the future. Circumstances can change, help can be found, and it is possible to begin life anew.
Allah also says:
“Do not despair of the mercy of Allah.” (Surah Az-Zumar: 53)
Therefore, in moments of despair, a Muslim should not consider themselves alone. Turning to Allah, making dua, focusing on prayer and sharing one’s suffering with trusted people are extremely important.
Patience in Adversity Is an Islamic Teaching
Allah says in the Holy Quran:
“And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth, lives and fruits. But give good tidings to the patient.” (Surah Al-Baqarah: 155)
Trials are part of human life. This does not mean that suffering should be ignored. Rather, people should take appropriate measures with patience during difficult times. If someone is ill, they should seek treatment; if they are mentally distressed, they should seek professional support; and if they become socially isolated, they should increase communication with family and friends.
The Prophet Muhammad (S.) said:
“How wonderful is the affair of the believer! Indeed, all of his affairs are good…” (Sahih Muslim: 2999)
The lesson of this hadith is that a believer gives thanks to Allah in times of happiness and remains patient in times of hardship. Thus, even amid a crisis, there remains a path of trust in Allah and positivity.
Suicide Is Not a Solution
Islam has strictly prohibited suicide. The Prophet Muhammad (S.) gave stern warnings regarding suicide. (Sahih Bukhari: 5778; Sahih Muslim: 109)
An important point here is that a person experiencing suicidal thoughts or severe despair should not be pushed away merely by frightening them with religious warnings. Rather, it is essential to keep them safe, listen to them carefully, inform a trusted family member and, when necessary, seek prompt assistance from a mental health professional.
Mental distress should be treated with the same seriousness as other forms of illness.
Prayer Can Be a Source of Spiritual Strength
When a person becomes broken from within, worship can help bring peace to the heart. Allah says:
“Surely, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest.” (Surah Ar-Ra’d: 28)
Prayer, Quran recitation, dua and zikr can strengthen a person spiritually. However, in cases of serious mental distress, it is not appropriate to advise worship alone while neglecting treatment or necessary support.
Islam also encourages seeking treatment. The Prophet Muhammad (S.) said:
“Allah has not sent down any disease without also sending down its treatment.” (Sahih Bukhari: 5678)
Therefore, mental suffering should not be dismissed as a sign of “weak faith.” Treatment and counselling should be sought when necessary.
The Family Has the Greatest Responsibility
People facing mental distress are often unable to express their suffering. Changes in behaviour, excessive silence, withdrawing from normal activities, expressing extreme hopelessness about the future or feeling like a burden should all be taken seriously.
Families should:
- Listen attentively without judging.
- Avoid leaving the person alone, especially when they are deeply distressed.
- Inform a trusted guardian, teacher or close relative.
- Seek prompt assistance from a doctor or mental health professional when necessary.
- Remind them of dua, prayer and Allah’s mercy.
- Avoid humiliating, reprimanding or making comments such as “you are weak.”
The Prophet Muhammad (S.) said:
“Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day should not harm his neighbour.” (Sahih Bukhari: 6018; Sahih Muslim: 47)
This teaching also reminds us of our broader social responsibility. Our words, behaviour and empathy can affect the mental state of others.
Islam teaches us that life is a trust from Allah. Therefore, rather than surrendering to despair, we must face crises through trust in Allah’s mercy, patience, dua, family love, social empathy and necessary medical treatment.
Let us be optimistic ourselves and show others the light of hope, because protecting a life is a great responsibility of humanity.
