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Breaking the Chains of Pornography Addiction

Breaking the Chains of Pornography Addiction

by | Jan 20, 2025 | Mental Health, Uncategorised

Islamic resilience

Breaking the Chains: How Islamic Counselling Helps Muslims Overcome Pornography Addiction

In today’s digital age, the prevalence of pornography has grown exponentially, creating a silent epidemic that affects individuals across cultures and religions. For Muslims grappling with this addiction, the struggle is compounded by the spiritual and ethical implications tied to Islamic teachings. This is where Islamic counselling (www.muslimmoodfit.com, www.sakoon.co.uk) offers a vital lifeline, providing support that integrates both psychological expertise and faith-based guidance.

Understanding Pornography Addiction in the Muslim Community

Pornography addiction is not merely a moral failing; it is a complex issue that involves mental, emotional, and spiritual dimensions. For many Muslims, this addiction triggers feelings of guilt, shame, and spiritual disconnection. These emotions can create a vicious cycle, where individuals feel trapped and unable to seek help due to fear of judgment.
Islamic counselling recognizes these unique challenges and offers a non-judgmental space where individuals can explore their struggles. By combining modern therapeutic techniques with principles rooted in Islamic values, counsellors address the addiction holistically.

Why Do People Seek Pornography?

Understanding the underlying reasons why individuals turn to pornography is crucial in addressing the addiction effectively. Common factors include:

• Stress and Emotional Distress: Many individuals use pornography as a coping mechanism to deal with stress, anxiety, loneliness, or depression.

• Curiosity and Accessibility: The ease of access to explicit content online, combined with natural curiosity, can lead individuals to develop unhealthy habits.

• Escapism: Pornography can offer a temporary escape from real-life challenges or unresolved emotional pain.

• Peer Influence or Early Exposure: Early exposure to pornography or societal normalization of explicit content can contribute to habitual consumption.

• Unmet Emotional or Relational Needs: Feelings of disconnection or unmet intimacy needs in relationships may drive individuals toward pornography as a substitute.

In mainstream counselling, pornography is often viewed as a personal choice or even a healthy outlet for sexual expression, provided it does not interfere with one’s daily life. However, Islamic Counselling approaches this issue differently, recognizing the spiritual and ethical dimensions. From an Islamic perspective, pornography is considered harmful both to the individual’s moral integrity and to their relationship with Allah. This distinction shapes the therapeutic strategies used in Islamic counselling, emphasizing the importance of aligning behaviour with faith and values.

The Role of Faith in Healing

Faith plays a pivotal role in the recovery process for Muslim clients. Islamic counselling understands the individuals faith and looks at the reasons behind the addiction. This approach not only strengthens their resolve to overcome addiction but also instills hope and purpose in their journey toward healing.

Case example: A male, married with one child, often visited escorts, Through counselling he was able to understand the reasoning, where he never had love of his mother or others in his life and visiting escorts was a way of getting that love. We explored what love meant and how he could have this in life without visiting Escorts.

A Muslim counsellor may also encourage practices such as regular Salah (prayer), Dhikr (remembrance of Allah), and seeking forgiveness through Istighfar. These acts help clients combat feelings of despair and foster a sense of accountability to their Creator.

Understanding the Role of Nafs in Addiction

Central to Islamic counselling is the concept of nafs (the self), which plays a significant role in understanding human behavior and addiction. In Islamic teachings, the nafs is categorized into three levels:

1. Nafs al-Ammarah (the commanding self): This is the part of the self that inclines toward desires and temptations. In the context of pornography addiction, the nafs al-ammarah can dominate, leading individuals to act on impulses that conflict with their spiritual and ethical values.

2. Nafs al-Lawwamah (the self-reproaching self): This level reflects the conscience and self-awareness. Muslims struggling with addiction often experience this stage as they feel guilt and remorse for their actions, recognizing the conflict between their behavior and faith.

3. Nafs al-Mutma’innah (the tranquil self): This represents the highest state of the self, characterized by contentment and alignment with Allah’s commands. Achieving this state is a key goal in overcoming addiction, as individuals strive for inner peace and spiritual fulfillment.

Islamic counselling helps clients understand these dimensions of the nafs and guides them in overcoming the lower desires of the nafs al-ammarah through faith, self-discipline, and therapeutic interventions.
Psychological Techniques in Islamic Counselling

While faith is central, Islamic counselling also incorporates evidence-based psychological strategies to address the behavioral and emotional aspects of pornography addiction. Techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) are adapted to align with Islamic values, helping clients identify triggers, reframe negative thought patterns, and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

Expanding on CBT

CBT is particularly effective for pornography addiction as it focuses on identifying and challenging distorted beliefs and thoughts that fuel addictive behaviors. In an Islamic context, CBT might involve reframing thoughts about temptation and aligning them with Islamic principles, such as viewing self-restraint as a form of worship and jihad against the self (jihad al-nafs). Practical exercises include mindfulness techniques to pause and reflect before acting on urges and structured activities to replace addictive behaviors with positive ones, such as learning new skills or engaging in community service.

Mindfulness and Emotional Regulation

Islamic counselling incorporates mindfulness practices adapted to Islamic teachings, such as focusing on the presence of Allah during moments of temptation. Techniques like deep breathing and grounding exercises help clients regulate emotions and reduce the intensity of cravings. These methods are combined with reflective practices, like journaling, to encourage self-awareness and accountability.

Motivational Interviewing (MI)

Another psychological approach used in Islamic counselling is Motivational Interviewing. MI helps clients explore their own motivations for change, emphasizing their personal values and goals in the context of their faith. This approach fosters a collaborative relationship between the counsellor and client, empowering the individual to take active steps toward recovery.

Relapse Prevention Strategies

A critical aspect of recovery is developing a plan to prevent relapse. Counsellors help clients identify high-risk situations, such as stress or boredom, and create actionable strategies to navigate these challenges. This might include building a support network, setting boundaries with technology, and using faith-based affirmations to reinforce commitment to change.

Overcoming Stigma and Seeking Help

One of the biggest barriers for Muslims struggling with pornography addiction is the stigma associated with seeking help. Islamic counselling works to break down these barriers by emphasizing the importance of self-improvement and personal growth in Islam. Seeking help is framed as an act of courage and a step toward fulfilling one’s spiritual obligations.

Online Support and Accessibility

With the rise of online counselling platforms, accessing Islamic counselling has become more convenient than ever. These services provide anonymity and flexibility, making it easier for individuals to seek help without fear of exposure. Sessions conducted via video or telephone offer the same level of confidentiality and support as in-person meetings, ensuring that clients feel comfortable and secure.

 
Conclusion

Pornography addiction is a challenging issue, but it is not insurmountable. Through the unique blend of psychological expertise and spiritual guidance offered by Islamic Counselling, Muslims can find the tools and support they need to reclaim their lives and strengthen their faith. Understanding and mastering the nafs is central to this process, as it helps individuals overcome their inner struggles and strive toward spiritual tranquility.
If you or someone you know is struggling, remember that help is available, and taking the first step toward healing is a sign of strength, not weakness.

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Additional Resources for Support
• Sakoon Counselling: A professional counselling service tailored to Muslim clients, integrating spiritual and psychological support. Visit www.sakoon.co.uk .

• Muslim Moodfit: A platform offering mental health and wellness resources tailored for Muslims. Visit www.muslimmoodfit.com.

• National Helplines: Check for helplines in your country specializing in addiction recovery or mental health support.

For tailored support and confidential sessions, consider exploring the resources available through Islamic Counselling services. With the right guidance, breaking free from addiction is not just a possibility but a reality.

Islam and Resilience: Nurturing Mental Health Through Faith

Islam and Resilience: Nurturing Mental Health Through Faith

by | Sep 15, 2023 | Mental Health, Self Help, Uncategorised

Islamic resilience

Islam and Resilience: Nurturing Mental Health Through Faith

In today’s fast-paced world, where the challenges of life can often feel overwhelming, the concept of resilience has gained significant attention. Resilience is the ability to bounce back from adversity, adapt to change, and maintain mental well-being despite life’s hardships. For many Muslims, their faith in Islam plays a vital role in cultivating resilience and promoting mental health. This article explores how Islam’s teachings and practices can contribute to building resilience and enhancing mental well-being.

Seeking Solace in Faith: One of the cornerstones of Islam is the deep spiritual connection it offers to its followers. The act of turning to Allah (God) in times of distress provides a sense of comfort and solace. Muslims are encouraged to maintain regular prayers (Salah) as a means of seeking guidance and inner peace. This practice helps individuals manage stress and anxiety, promoting a positive mental state.

Patience and Perseverance: The Quran and Hadith (sayings of the Prophet Muhammad) emphasize the value of patience and perseverance in the face of challenges. Muslims are encouraged to remain steadfast and trust in Allah’s divine wisdom. This outlook can help individuals reframe setbacks as opportunities for growth, contributing to enhanced mental resilience.

Community and Support: Islam places great importance on the sense of community (Ummah). The support and empathy offered by fellow believers during difficult times can significantly impact an individual’s mental health. Gathering for congregational prayers, participating in Islamic events, and engaging in acts of charity foster a sense of belonging that combats feelings of isolation.

Mindfulness and Reflection: Islamic practices such as meditation (dhikr) and recitation of the Quran promote mindfulness and self-reflection. Engaging in these practices can lead to reduced stress levels, increased emotional regulation, and a greater sense of well-being. Mindfulness allows individuals to stay grounded in the present moment and manage negative thought patterns.

Positive Moral Values: Islam encourages adherents to cultivate virtues such as gratitude, compassion, humility, and forgiveness. These values contribute to a positive outlook on life, better relationships, and increased emotional resilience. Practicing gratitude, for instance, has been linked to improved mental health and overall life satisfaction.

Balancing Worldly Pursuits: Islam advocates for a balanced approach to life, discouraging excess and promoting moderation. Striking a balance between material pursuits and spiritual well-being can lead to reduced stress, as individuals focus on what truly matters rather than getting caught up in the pressures of the world.

Understand your emotions: Culturally and society dictates we are told to hide our emotions, but this causes inner conflict. Islamically we should understand our emotions which makes it possible for you to manage them.

Try the new app which helps to understand our emotions but also covers the topics covered above www.muslimmoodfit.com

Conclusion: Islam offers a holistic framework for cultivating resilience and promoting mental health. Through its teachings of seeking solace in faith, practicing patience, fostering a sense of community, engaging in mindfulness, upholding positive moral values, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle, Muslims can build the inner strength needed to navigate life’s challenges. By incorporating these principles into their lives, individuals can find comfort, purpose, and strength in their faith, ultimately leading to improved mental well-being.

Want to increase your resilience and connect better with your faith. You can book a counselling appointment

The Psychological Impact of Social Isolation and Tips on How to Make This Easier

The Psychological Impact of Social Isolation and Tips on How to Make This Easier

by | Apr 14, 2020 | Events, Self Help, Uncategorised

The Psychological Impact of Social Isolation and Tips on How to Make This Easier

With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, more and more people are practicing social distancing and quarantining at home to protect themselves and others from the virulent virus. For those living alone, this can mean spending a lengthy amount of time being alone in their apartments or houses.

This can degrade one’s mental health, and it may even lead to increased social isolation and increased risks of serious mental health disorders. In this article, we will talk about the psychological impact of social isolation and some tips on how to make these trying and uncertain times much easier to handle.

What is Social Isolation?

Social Isolation is a state of complete or close to complete lack of interaction or contact from the outside world over a long period. This is quite different from the feeling of loneliness which is a temporary and most often involuntary lack of contact from other members of society.

 

 

 

Humans are inherently social animals. We have evolved to thrive and feel good when around people we trust and socially interact with them. With quarantines taking place all over the world, many people are experiencing less “real” social interaction aside from social media on the internet. However, the lower-income groups of people may not have access to the internet and social media to communicate with their family and friends.

 What are the Negative Impacts of Social Isolation?

The negative impacts of social isolation have been studied in a variety of different groups from astronauts in space, people sentenced to solitary confinement, to researchers in the frigid Antarctic region. Social isolation can wreak severe havoc on a person’s mental and also physical health. Some of its impacts are as follows:

1. Increased Risk of Depression

Numerous studies have found that social isolation is commonly associated with depression and other mental health disorders. Negative thoughts such as hopelessness and worthlessness can increase in magnitude while being socially isolated. 

  1. Can Fuel Anxiety and Paranoia

Social isolation can heavily contribute to anxiety and may even trigger panic attacks, especially during these uncertain times. Without other people to console or talk to, anxious behavior can worsen over time.

  1. Heighten Problems with Diet

Social isolation can negatively impact an individual’s diet, whether it be overeating or the loss of one’s appetite. Sudden gain or loss of weight can be severely damaging to your physical and mental health.   

  1. Problems with Sleep

Having trouble sleeping or sleeping too much is also associated with social isolation. Irregular sleep schedules can severely impact an individual’s mental state.

  1. Loss of Energy

Due to having trouble with sleep, a socially isolated individual can feel tired for most of the day and lose any motivation for doing anything productive during the day. If the individual is working at home during the quarantine, this can negatively impact his or her income.

  1. Substance Abuse

Being in social isolation can increase one’s stress levels tremendously, and this can lead to abuse of substances such as alcohol, medications, nicotine, and even drugs.

  1. Negative Physical Impacts

Aside from negative mental impacts, social isolation is known to cause muscle aches, pains, and headaches. It can also worsen existing medical conditions. Studies have shown that social isolation is associated with increased risks of heart diseases, high levels of stress hormones, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes.

 

How to Combat Social Isolation

 

Being socially isolated for a lengthy amount of time can lead to deadly situations, as seen above. However, social isolation can be combatted and prevented. Here some of the ways you can stay mentally and physically healthy while in social isolation during the quarantine:

  1. Keep Active and Exercise

Exercising is one of the best ways to combat the feelings of social isolation. Numerous studies worldwide have found that exercising can help reduce stress levels by a large margin. It helps boosts endorphin production, the feel-good chemicals of our brain and reduce stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. You can safely do workout routines indoors without having to go to the gym.

  1. Continue Neglected Projects

Maybe you have projects in the past that you’ve put aside. You can use the plentiful time you have at home to continue and maybe even finish them. Keeping yourself busy can help ward off the symptoms of depression due to social isolation.

  1. Try relaxation techniques, mindfulness and prayers

Relaxation can significantly reduce stress and anxiety. A study in 2019 found that college students who used mobile apps for relaxation such as call to prayer mindfulness for 10 minutes a day experienced being less depressed and anxious. Prayers which is seen as a form of relaxation also helps reduce blood pressure and lower your heart rate.

  1. Clean the House

Maybe it has been a while since your house or apartment had a thorough cleaning. That said, you want to take an hour or two to clean your entire house and get rid of unessential things you may have lying around. You might even find an item you’ve been looking for or discover something nostalgic from the past.

  1. Learn about your faith or a New Hobby or a Language

Now that we have ample time for ourselves, it is one of the best times to reflect, read the Quran and pray or learn a new hobby or a language. You can currently find plenty of apps or have Zoom get together. My children are currently engaged in Studying activities (including Islamic studies) online and have to answer questions where they get feedback, they absolutely love it.

 

Conclusion

We are living in a very scary and uncertain time, with more and more people experiencing social isolation. As humans, we require socialization to maintain a healthy mental and physical state. Therefore, knowing the effects of social isolation and the ways you can prevent them can be really helpful in making your quarantine a lot easier. Sometimes individuals are unable to cope and this is where Sakoon Counselling Services can help.

Contact Us to book an appointment

Read our Self Help guides which cover anxiety and depression

7 pieces of advice for every Muslim losing a loved one

7 pieces of advice for every Muslim losing a loved one

by | Mar 9, 2020 | Uncategorised

Dealing with the death of a loved one

 

إِنَّا لِلَّهِ وَإِنَّ إِلَيْهِ رَاجِعُونَ‎

Innā lillāhi wa innā ilayhī rājiʿūn

Surely we belong to Allah and to him shall we return

 

 

Death is an irrefutable fact we can’t deny. Time and again, we lose ourselves in this transient world thinking that we are going to live here forever. As a result, Allah reminds us and shows us signs with the loss of a loved one to show that everything in this world is just temporary.

Losing a loved one is undeniably a grief-stricken and devastating moment, especially for the family and close friends. Although according to Qur’an 2:156, that a soul belongs to Allah and will return to Him in time, still it is a painful moment seeing our loved one passed away.  Only those people who have experienced it can truly know the depth of pain it brings when it strikes. It hurts deep down in the core that sometimes you feel numb with emotion. The Muslim community has a prescribed way in Islam on how to deal with such inconsolable loss—without violating Islamic values. These are the seven pieces of advice that can help.

1. Dua (Supplications)

Duas or supplications are the biggest weapons of a firm believer of Islam and they are unquestionable. While the believer is still alive, he/she makes Duas for our well-being, and now that he/she has gone to the afterlife, that person relies on our Dua since he/she desperately needs them now.

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Many of us have forgotten the significance of making Duas by thinking that making a Dua is all there is to do when in reality, Duas are our strongest assets to the point that they can possibly alter the decree of Allah to turn out to be another decree. With this mentality, people tend to get occupied with other acts, thinking that these acts will profit the dead, but they do not. Having get-togethers while reading Qur’an on the dead or thinking Duas are more powerful whilst at the grave are already forms of modernisations in the religion that has no authentic basis. The Holy Qur’an was made known as a form of healing and guidance for those alive. It was never the tradition of the early righteous Muslims to gather after the death on a specific day or visit the grave in order to make Duas for the dead with the perception that they will be more acceptable.

The little things we do can truly be big in the eyes of Allah. Make Duas for the forgiveness of loved ones, especially the children to their parents.

There are many ways to make your Dua. However, it should be observed in accordance with the Sunnah; take note that the best Duas are those wordings said by the Prophet. 

2. Sabr (Patience)

Probably one of the hardest attribute to grasp when dealing with the death of a loved is observing patience or Sabr. Allow yourself time to heal, and don’t let death take its toll on you. Sabr enables a rightful Muslim to demonstrate reliance and contentment to the decree of Allah. This will also allow that person to be grateful to Allah despite such loss knowing that Allah will never burden a soul with more than he/she can bear and that He designed this pivotal moment to pay off the loss with something much bigger in the future.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) reminds us that a true believer will express gratitude to Allah, if prosperity attends that person, and he/she will patiently endure any adversity that befalls him, thinking that it is for his best interests.

Observing Sabr or patience does not mean we cannot feel down or cry our grief; for Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also had tears in his eyes when Ibraheem, his son passed away. But we must not hit oneself, cry excessively, tear down the clothes, and most especially question Allah’s decree. These acts are strictly prohibited, and thus, we waste away on the great reward that is to come for being patient.

3. Don’t dwell in isolation

It is quite common to be engulfed by grief with the death of a loved one. However, one must not dwell in it much, as this sends an invitation to Shaytan to become misery’s company. The ploy is to give your attention to every little thing you have, thinking that this could also be taken away from you. Love brings love while regret leads to discontentment; discontentment should not be felt, most especially to the Glorified and Exalted Allah. Let the death of a loved be a lesson of detaching from Dunya and to hold Allah (glorified and exalted be he) in your heart above all others.

4. Aiding and Forgiveness

In life, we have our own share of disagreements which may, later on, lead to holding grudges against one another. Forgiving your deceased loved one for any wrongdoings they have done to you is a great gift you can give to them. By freeing yourself from grudge or something that person owes you, you are being merciful to that person which will also lead to Allah being merciful upon you as well.

Besides giving forgiveness to what is due, a faithful Muslim also ought to help a deceased brother with any outstanding debt he or she may have left behind. The living faithful follower must also help in the funeral as well, for this is one of the obligations of a Muslim to another Muslim brother or sister. Help the close relatives or the family of the departed Muslim during their difficult time, knowing they really need any help that comes along their way.

5. Sadaqa (Charity)

Another good thing a faithful follower of Islam can do for their departed loved one is to offer charity or Sadaqa on their behalf alongside his or her own charity or Sadaqa that he/she gives while still alive. This is according to the Sunnah and one that should be taken with high importance.

Donate on projects that provide water, build a school or Masjid, or simply donate clothes and foods to charity. Sadaqa does not only mean to give money on behalf of your late loved one, but you could also do a Hajj or Umrah, just as long as you have finished your Hajj already. You can also try observing voluntary fasts for the sake of your deceased loved one. In conjunction with all of this, try to remember some of the bits of advice the departed may have shared with you and try to act them out. This will allow them to have the incessant reward for the knowledge they have imparted when they were still alive. Also, take note that by doing such acts you will benefit your own book of deeds as well

6. Occupy yourself

We all need time to heal and experience the feeling of grief as it comes. But, it is imperative to keep moving forward despite the loss. The process of bereavement carries you back to the past, reminding you of all that you could have said or done, and this makes you feel all the more depress and lonely. Thus, going back to your usual routine could become your lifeline, as this may serve as a healthy distraction to channel out your energy to do something good. One is never really prepared for this paralyzing pain, yet Allah (glorified and exalted be he) reassures us that every hardship will ease (Qur’an: Chapter 94 verse 5).

7. Reflection

Lastly, take these pivotal and precious moments of contemplation over the reality of this temporary world and that we will also depart from this transient phase to join Allah (Inshallah). We are encouraged to think about death over and over again and visit graveyards to keep us back on track and assess our current relationship and state with Allah. Do not let the evil spirits keep you busy with all the worldly needs of this world. Remind yourself especially your loved ones and the others around you that death is just around the corner. We must do more to become better servants and faithful followers of Allah. With our reconnection with Allah upon a person’s death, that deceased follower may get the rewards for your good works as well.

Feeling a deeper love for someone would also mean feeling deeper grief for that person’s loss, as they say, to grieve is to love. During the death of a loved one, we feel vulnerable, raw, anguished, devastated, and so much more. Pain can be manifested in different ways, and the coping mechanism of an individual differs from person to person.

There is no exact timeline for a healing process or grief, but in time, these sharp pangs may become blunt. But the Qur’an and the Sunnah can help us deal with these emotions more appropriately. Following these steps will not only help us recover in time, but it will also help the soul of our bereaved loved ones and ours as well.  In addition seeking  Sakoon Counselling can help you through the grieving process.

Sources of Support:

View more articles in our BLOG or our Self Help Guides

Book a counselling appointment

Muslim burial services – Eternal Gardens

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Happily Ever After 2 – Covering before, during and after marriage

Happily Ever After 2 – Covering before, during and after marriage

by | Feb 23, 2020 | Uncategorised

Muslim Marriage event – Covering the cycle of marriage.

Due to Popular demand we are holding another marriage event which talks about real marriages and not fairy tales.

How to have a successful marriage, what happens when problems arise and the support you can get during times of difficulty.

It will  be another Intense day

Who can attend:

Open to all. whether your an individual or a couple getting to know each other for marriage or are married. 

Key Speakers:

Ayesha Aslam – Director of Sakoon Islamic counselling 

Saykh Hasib Noor – The Legacy institue

Imam Shabbir Hassan – The NIkah Co

We look forward to seeing you

Ladies evening of the year

Ladies evening of the year

by | Oct 30, 2019 | Events, Uncategorised

Get ready for an evening full of Entertainment, Glitz & Glamour!!! Exclusive to Ladies only (Girls 10 yrs+)!

Our guest Speaker includes Ayesha Aslam From Sakoon Islamic counselling

She will be discussing Muslim Mental Health, addressing the Stigma associated with it and how you can support the community by sitting their Accredited Counselling Courses

About this Event

‘Ruislip Muslim Mums & Friends‘ in collaboration with ‘Lahore Fashions UK‘ are excited to invite you to a ‘ Fashion & Entertainment Extravaganza’!

It truly is an evening of empowering women!

In their own way each woman is battling through something or another in their life& we all need opportunities where we can just leave our troubles at the door, let our hair down (literally), glam up and dance the night away.

Sounds like your type of evening? Then just let us entertain You!

Hosted by the very talented Ruby Raza & Kajal from LycaRadio.

Featuring Fashion Statement by ‘Lahore Fashions UK’

Performances by DJ HENNA & MISS MOD (Ministry of Dhol)

Including a three course sit-down dinner.