Healing the Heart and Mind: Modern Relevance of Sufi to Psychological and Mental Health

Abstract

The global rates of mental conditions such as anxiety, stress, and depression are on the rise. Contemporary treatment is effective, though it usually does not acknowledge spiritual needs. This paper examines the way Sufi doctrine can help in a psychological healing process. It is to create a practical model of Sufi-inspired psychotherapy of mental well-being. The research question is as follows: How can traditional Sufi knowledge be utilized in the current psychological care? The gap in research is that there are no formal models that relate Sufi ideas to therapy. The majority of the studies address Sufism in a historic or broad manner, without developing a practical model of clinical use. This paper will fill that gap. This study employs qualitative research reviewing Sufi literature and modern mental-health studies. The results indicate Sufi exercises such as dhikr (remembrance), muraqabah (meditation), suhbah (companionship), and tawakkul (trust in God) lessen the stress and enhance resiliency. Sufi psychology holds that the self is classified into stages: nafs ammarah (commanding self), lawwamah (self-blaming self), and mutmainnah (peaceful self). These phases conform to the contemporary treatment processes: awareness, responsibility, and stability of emotions. Classical Sufi wisdom is related to cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness with the spiritual dimension. The discussion is based on a model therapy consisting of six steps: self-awareness, self-accountability, inner purification, spiritual companionship, trust in God, and the achievement of tranquility. This model combines ethical reform and spiritual exercises with psychological methods. The conclusion is that Sufism presents a whole body and soul healing. Integrating it with contemporary psychology could give culturally sensitive and spiritually rich therapy. This practice fosters peace, sense, and strength in the modern stressful society.