Healing Through the Heart: The Role of Sufism in Overcoming Trauma and Loss of Identity among Young People
Keywords:
Dhikr therapy, Phenomenological research, Spiritual healing, Sufism, Trauma recovery, Youth identityAbstract
In an era marked by rising psychological distress, spiritual dislocation, and identity confusion among young people, this study explores the transformative role of Sufism in healing trauma and reconstructing identity. Using a qualitative phenomenological approach, the research investigates how youth engaged in Sufi spiritual practices—such as dhikr (remembrance), muraqabah (meditative introspection), and sohbet (spiritual discourse)—experience emotional regulation, identity integration, and renewed purpose. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, participant observations, and reflective journals from 15 participants in Indonesia and the United Kingdom. Thematic analysis revealed five interconnected themes: spiritual anchoring and identity reclamation, emotional stabilization through dhikr, the healing function of Sufi communities, the alchemical transformation of suffering through divine love, and the emergence of meaning and service-oriented purpose. Findings suggest that Sufism offers a unique blend of psychological depth, spiritual wisdom, and communal support that is often absent in conventional mental health models. It not only facilitates coping and resilience but also fosters profound inner transformation, reframing trauma as a pathway to divine intimacy and personal awakening. This study underscores the relevance of Sufi epistemology in contemporary trauma discourse and recommends the integration of spiritually grounded, culturally contextualized approaches within youth mental health frameworks, especially in Muslim communities.
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