The future of Muslim mental health

Join host Russ Altman with guest Rania Awaad, M.D.,  a Clinical Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the Stanford University School of Medicine where she is the Director of the Stanford Muslim Mental Health & Islamic Psychology Lab.  Delve into the intersection of mental health and spirituality, shedding light on the importance of holistic approaches for comprehensive healing. Drawing from historical wisdom, Awaad introduces the concept of Maristans, ancient healing centers that integrate physical, mental, and spiritual therapies to offer a holistic model of care. 
As the conversation unfolds, listeners gain a deeper understanding of how these principles can be applied in modern healthcare, fostering patient-centric approaches that consider mind, body, and spirit. From addressing diverse faiths to collaboration between medical and spiritual practitioners, Awaad's insights pave the way for a future where holistic healing is at the forefront of medical practice.

Chapter Timestamps:

(00:00:00) Introduction

Rania Awaad discusses her journey in studying the connection between Islam and mental health, including historical understandings of mental illness and treatments, such as talk therapy.

(00:03:05) Special Challenges in Studying Muslim Mental Health

Professor Awaad discusses the challenges of providing mental health care to the diverse Muslim community in the United States. The impact of immigration, intergenerational trauma, and racial diversity on mental health is highlighted. Factors like acculturation, family dynamics, and historical trauma are considered.

(00:06:50) The Intersection of Faith and Mental Health

Professor Awaad shares insights into how the Islamic faith intersects with mental health. The concept of holistic health in Islam and its implications for mental health are explained. Early Muslim scholars' references to scripture in understanding and treating mental illness are discussed.

(00:13:13) Faith and Resistance to Treatment

The conversation delves into addressing resistance to medical treatment based on religious beliefs. The concept of "spiritual bypassing" is introduced, where religious frameworks are used to explain mental health issues. Professor Awaad shares her unique approach as a dual-trained psychiatrist and theologian.

(00:14:22) Transferring Knowledge to Practitioners

Russ Altman inquires how to transfer Professor Awaad's insights and dual training to other practitioners. The role of her nonprofit, Maristan, in providing training and resources is highlighted. The development of integrated psychotherapy models and training is discussed.

(00:17:09) Common Threads in Different Faiths

The discussion explores commonalities in mental health challenges and solutions across Abrahamic faiths. The potential for sharing insights and strategies among different religious communities is emphasized.

(00:19:19) The Impact of COVID-19 on Muslim Mental Health

The challenges faced by the Muslim community during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially during Ramadan, are discussed. Professor Awaad shares findings from a global study on Muslims' mental health perceptions during the pandemic.

(00:23:00) Maristan: A Place of Healing

The nonprofit organization Maristan is introduced, and its name's historical significance is explained. The role of Maristan in integrating spirituality and mental health care is discussed, along with its goal of making mental health care more accessible to all communities. While modern languages have introduced alternative terms for hospitals, the historical terminology persists in some regions.

(00:25:10) Bringing Holistic Healing to Modern Medicine

Russ Altman discusses the concept of healing centers and the need to reintroduce holistic healing into modern medicine. Professor Awaad shares her vision of Maristans serving as a model for modern healthcare, emphasizing holistic care for the mind, body, and soul.

(00:27:21) Maristans: A Model for Holistic Healing

Russ Altman reflects on the patient's desire for holistic care and the limitations of current medical practices. Professor Awaad describes the architectural and therapeutic aspects of Maristans, highlighting their use of water fountains, greenery, acoustics, and sound therapy. The contrast between Maristans and historical asylums/prisons for the mentally ill is discussed.

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