Resources

Books, Mental Health, and More

Writing in Color

Some novels by Muslim authors

Find a sensitivity reader

Ruh Care (directory of Muslim therapists)

South Asian Network

South Asian Therapists

Institute for Muslim Mental Health

A Prophetic Tradition About Music

What is Islamic Music? by Sami Yusuf

Bilateral music for self-soothing

*Many Muslims believe that music is haraam (impermissible) in Islam. If that is what one believes, that is fine, however, this is an area within which there is a valid difference of opinion. I follow the opinion that the permissibility of music depends on the lyrics, content, and impact on the listener. For example, as a therapist, I have found that the use of bilateral music or music within guided meditations can be incredibly soothing and helpful in facilitating the processing of severe anxiety, phobias, or past traumas. Therefore, I – and my characters – do not view myself or themselves as any less devout or devoted to the Qur’an due to their love for music. My characters, like me, are selective about the music they listen to. This means not listening to music that I or the mainstream would consider as promoting haraam acts and/or associating others with Allah (swt).