*TRIGGER WARNING*: In this episode we discuss mental illness, suicide and self-harm in length. If you feel the content discussed may be triggering, please either proceed with caution or feel free to listen to any one of our previous episodes. We have also provided a list of credible resources below.

In Ep.10 of Season 2, we are joined by psychotherapist Berak Hussain as we dive deep into mental illness and self harm in the Muslim community. We discuss ways we can emerge out of this sea of sadness and hopelessness.

This is a very sensitive topic, but with that being said, it's a discussion that needs to be had openly. Although, suicide is the second leading cause of death in teens to those who are in their mid-thirties, it's nearly impossible to know the true impact it has on the Muslim community, since these deaths may go unreported.

For families who’ve lost loved ones to suicide, they are often left grieving behind closed doors, putting an extra layer of pain to their suffering. Berak explains how we, as a community, need to do better in supporting one another and learning to be less judgmental.

There is a misconception when it comes to this topic in Islam and Berak adds that the only way to clear the air is by bringing the discussion of mental health to the forefront in places like our homes and mosques, which can encourage those suffering in silence to get the help that they may need. But before that can happen, more work must be done in order to make that help more accessible.

To understand what drives a person to commit self harm, you have to get to the root of the problem. Berak explains that there are many reasons and triggers that can lead someone down that road.

Now, what can we do to help? Berak walks us through ways we can be of assistance and certain signs we can keep an eye out for.  We also walk through exercises to help us create boundaries between us and those who may be toxic to our mental health - this includes our own family and relatives whom we may share a roof with.

If you or someone you may know is struggling w/ suicidal thoughts please reach out to a licensed professional. We have listed a few resources available below:

RESOURCES: National Institute of Mental Health  https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/find-help/index.shtml

National Alliance on Mental Health -  https://www.nami.org/Find-Support/NAMI-HelpLine/Top-HelpLine-Resources

Naseeha Youth Hotline- Provides our community with the tools needed to address mental health. With our confidential helpline, our youth receives immediate, anonymous, and confidential support. https://naseeha.org/

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline-  Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) The Lifeline connects callers to the nearest crisis center in the Lifeline national network. These centers provide crisis counseling and mental health referrals

Crisis Text Line- Text “HELLO” to 741741 The Crisis Text Line serves anyone, in any type of crisis, connecting them with a crisis counselor who can provide support and information, anytime of any day.

National Domestic Violence Hotline- 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) The Hotline provides lifesaving tools and immediate support to empower victims and survivors to find safety and live free of abuse. If it’s not safe for you to call, or if you don’t feel comfortable, visit https://www.thehotline.org/help/  to chat with a trained advocate.
Finding a therapist during Covid-19 visit- https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/online-counseling

Follow Berak: @berak_h