Mental Stress Among the Younger Generation: Causes, Effects, and Mitigation: A Specialized Study in the Light of the Prophetic Seerah (ﷺ)

Abstract

This paper explores the relationship between modern psychological practices for managing mental stress and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, focusing on how his methods align with contemporary therapeutic techniques. Work-related stress, anxiety, and depression are prevalent among today's youth, often exacerbated by social, academic, and economic pressures. The paper discusses modern therapies like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which emphasizes accepting and embracing difficult emotions rather than resisting them. This approach is compared to the Islamic practice of Tawakkul (trust in Allah), where individuals are encouraged to place their trust in divine wisdom, accept hardships, and find peace through reliance on Allah. The teachings of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ on patience (Sabr), gratitude (Shukr), and constant remembrance of Allah (Dhikr) provide a comprehensive spiritual framework for managing stress and achieving mental peace. By integrating these Islamic principles with contemporary psychological strategies, this paper demonstrates how young people can benefit from a balanced approach to mental well-being, incorporating both spiritual and practical methods to manage mental health.

Keywords: Mental stress, modern therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Tawakkul, Prophet Muhammad, Sabr, Shukr, Dhikr, Youth mental health