How to Deal with Emotions
Emotions are responses that humans undergo in reaction to events or situations. Emotions in the brain, such as stress, anxiety, and depression, could have a negative impact on the immune system and mental health. Emotional trauma and failing to deal with emotions in the right way may cause inflammation, heart disease, and affect tumor growth and cancer.
As emotionally intelligent beings, we must learn to express our emotions appropriately. For instance, instead of expressing anger, one should remain calm, patient, keep silent, or speak kindly. Seek refuge in Allah from Satan and perform wudu. If there is a fear that the conflict will continue, then it is advisable to leave the place or avoid the person.
Fear causes anxiety, stress, and can even lead people toward depression and feelings of despair. Instead of fearing people, one should develop fear of Allah. When believers feel sad, anxious, or experience grief, they should practice patience and supplicate to Allah. When believers experience happiness, they should express gratitude to Allah.
Modesty and shyness are integral parts of faith. Therefore, one should feel ashamed to commit moral wrongdoings and sins. Instead of envying people’s popularity, beauty, or happiness, envy the righteous person to whom Allah has taught the Quran and who recites it during the night and day. Also, envy the generous person to whom Allah has given much wealth, and who spends it in the path of truth. Instead of showing off or competing in worldly possessions, one should complement each other with good deeds.
Express your love and hatred for anything for the sake of Allah. “Verily the strongest handhold of faith is that you love for the sake of Allah and that you hate for the sake of Allah.” [Ahmad]
Taking steps to manage emotions correctly can not only improve mental health but also contribute to better overall health and resilience against illness. Practicing healthy coping mechanisms such as mindfulness, prayer, exercise, remembrance of Allah, and supplication to Allah can help believers manage their emotions more effectively and reduce the risk of adverse health outcomes.
May Allah grant us the strength, wisdom, and guidance to navigate our emotions with patience, resilience, and faith.
