[Influence of the Islam on the perception of mental health problems: patient perspective and implications]

Almost one million Muslims live in the Netherlands, and as first or second-generation migrants, they are at increased risk of developing psychiatric problems. There are barriers for using mental health care, partly due to cultural differences.

With this essay, we like to contribute to existing knowledge, aiming to improve mental health care to Muslims in the Netherlands.

We will discuss this theme using personal experiences and Dutch and international research.

Dutch Muslims use biopsychosocial as well as religious explanations for mental health problems. Mental health problems can be regarded a test of Allah, demanding patience and strength. Allah can be perceived as the source that will resolve the problems. Religion is a source of support and often the first remedy that is tried, e.g. Ruqya (reciting Quran texts). The feeling that problems should be resolved alone, and experienced taboo increase the barrier to regular mental health care.

For most Muslims, religion is an important factor in explanations and help seeking for mental health problems. For the relation between health care worker and patient, it is important to investigate explanations for mental health problems and the role religion in relation to the problems.