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Muslim Education Review
Vol. 3 No. 2, 2024, 362-385
https://doi.org/10.56529/mer.v3i2.227
Managing Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder through
Utilizing Islamic Antidotes
Ali Samaila, Musa A. Maikamba, Md. Mahdi Hasan, Ahmad
Muhammad Jungudo
Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia, Indonesia
Gombe State University, Nigeria
Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia, Indonesia
Gombe State University, Nigeria
Corresponding E-mail: ali.samaila@uiii.ac.id, maikamba@gsu.edu.ng,
Mahdi.hassan@uiii.ac.id, abuzubair@gsu.edu.ng
Abstract
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a prevalent mental health condition
characterized by compulsive behaviors and irrepressible impulses. The treatment
for this disorder is challenging due to its complex nature. It is occasionally linked to
religious observances referred to as scrupulosity. This disorder exhibits a multitude
of consequences. The manifestation of these intrusive thoughts and undesirable
behaviors among students impede their ability to study efficiently and negatively
impact their academic performance. Researchers and academics have put forth a
range of pharmaceutical and psychological remedies and solutions for this
catastrophic disorder. This research proposes potential Islamic strategies for
resisting and curtailing the disorder. The research findings indicate that the Islamic
antidote for managing OCD involves several spiritual and therapeutic practices such
as dhikr (remembrance of God), tawakkul (trust in God), salah (prayer), du’a
(supplication) and istighfar (seeking forgiveness). Additionally, individuals afflicted
with this disorder, should employ strategies such as daily supplications, incantation
(Al-uqyah Al-Sharʿiyyah) and efforts to prevent intrusive thoughts. The study
effectively employed a descriptive methodology to conduct its examination.
Keywords:
obsession, compulsion, disorder, students, Islam
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Introduction
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a chronic mental health
condition that often begins in childhood or adolescence. According to the
Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (DSM-5)
(American Psychiatric Association, 2013), OCD is characterized by
persistent obsessions and compulsions that cause significant distress
and impairment in various aspects of life. Obsessions are intrusive,
irrational thoughts or fears, while compulsions are repetitive behaviors
performed to reduce the anxiety associated with the obsessions. For
students, OCD can lead to anxiety over academic performance, social
relationships and daily assignments. The condition often results in
procrastination, perfectionism and avoidance behaviors, which can have
a detrimental impact on educational outcomes (Abramowitz et al.,
2009).
The global prevalence of OCD is estimated to be between 1 to 2
percent of the general population. According to the World Health
Organization (WHO), OCD ranks among the top twenty causes of
disability worldwide for individuals aged from 15 to 44 years (World
Health Organization, 2021). Lifetime prevalence rates of OCD vary, but
many epidemiological studies estimate a range of 1.1 percent to 2.5
percent in most populations (Fontenelle et al., 2006). The disorder often
begins in childhood or adolescence and persists into adulthood if left
untreated. A large-scale study conducted by Ruscio et al. (2010) using
the National Comorbidity Survey Replication (NCS-R) in the United
States found that the lifetime prevalence of OCD was 2.3 percent in
adults. Furthermore, the 12-month prevalence of OCD in the U.S. was
reported to be 1.2 percent with higher rates in females (Ruscio et al.,
2010). Similar studies across Europe indicate a comparable prevalence
of 1.1 percent to 1.8 percent (Torres et al., 2006). In Asian countries such
as India, the lifetime prevalence of OCD is estimated at around 2.5
percent with higher rates of obsessions related to cleanliness and
contamination (Reddy et al., 2010). However, research on OCD in Africa
is less prevalent, though limited studies have reported significant rates.
For example, Adewuya and Ola (2005) found a prevalence of 4.8 percent
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among Nigerian university students exhibiting clinically significant OCD
symptoms; a higher figure than the global average, possibly due to limited
mental health awareness and services.
On a gender basis, OCD affects males and females differently in
terms of onset and prevalence. The disorder tends to start earlier in
males, particularly in childhood or adolescence, whereas females show
higher rates of OCD during adulthood (Geller et al., 2001).
Epidemiological data suggest that about one-third to one-half of all OCD
cases develop before the age of 15 (Pinto et al., 2006). However, females
tend to have higher lifetime prevalence than males, especially after
adolescence (Veale & Roberts, 2014).
Additionally, obsessive-compulsive disorder involves repetitive
and uncontrollable thoughts, along with ritualistic acts that serve no
purpose, as indicated by Bouvard et al. (2004). Research conducted in
2017 by Mahintorabi and colleagues states that repetitive thoughts are
frequently identified as the main trigger for anxiety. An example
frequently observed is a strong focus on cleanliness and hygiene,
resulting in frequent hand-washing, bathing, and teeth brushing to
remove any potential germs or dirt (Keuthen et al., 1998). This situation
has arisen due to a person’s fixation on dirt and germs. Veale and Roberts
(2014) found that younger children are more susceptible to this
condition. While this condition can impact individuals across different
age groups, it tends to be more common among younger children. As per
Ansari and Shahabi (2018), dedicating a significant amount of time to this
activity can lead to significant challenges in various aspects of life,
affecting social and professional functioning.
Managing OCD, therefore, requires an integrative approach that
addresses both the psychological and spiritual needs of the individual.
Islam provides a comprehensive framework for understanding and
managing psychological conditions. Mental health in Islam is seen as the
harmony between the mind, body and soul. The Qur’an and hadith
(teachings of Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him) emphasize the
importance of mental well-being, self-care and trust in God (tawakkul).
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The Quran encourages believers to seek solace in prayer (salah),
remembrance of God (dhikr), and supplication (du’a) during times of
distress (Qur’an, 2:286).
From an Islamic perspective, mental illness, including OCD, is not
a punishment but a test of faith (ibtilaa). It is believed that enduring
hardship with patience (sabr) and seeking healing through permissible
means, including medical and psychological interventions, is a form of
worship (Qur’an, 2:155). The emphasis on seeking both physical and
spiritual healing is supported by Islamic jurisprudence, which encourages
Muslims to seek medical treatment alongside spiritual remedies (Hadith
Sahih Bukhari, 7.71:582).
This topic has intrigued experts from various disciplines, leading
them to write articles exploring the condition from multiple perspectives.
Through an Islamic lens, GH Rassool and colleagues (2019) have made
noteworthy contributions to the subject. The authors delve into the
origins of the illness and its classification, providing an explanation of the
condition. Furthermore, the authors explain the meaning and nature of
the disease, along with the circumstance. They propose a viable solution
to the problem, suggesting the use of ruqyah, an incantation, along with
reciting the Qur’an, and incorporating psychological treatment. The
research did not treat the issue of obsessive-compulsive disorder among
students. According to Kamarul Zaman et al. (2022), obsessive-
compulsive disorder is considered one of the five core types of anxiety
disorders. The writers of this paper used a qualitative research
methodology to assess the effectiveness of the tactics mentioned in the
Qur’an for treating obsessive-compulsive disorder. There are five verses
in the Qur’an dedicated to waswas, which is doubt that is excessive in
nature. The research has demonstrated that these verses offer
complementary treatments for obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder can be managed by implementing
Qur’anic strategies such as maintaining ruqyah, making declarations of
ta’awwudh (seeking refuge from Satan), regular recitation of the Qur’an,
and engaging in dhikr (remembrance of Allah).
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Schoenfeld and Konopasek (2007) undertook a thorough
examination into the efficacy of a number of pharmaceuticals that are
frequently prescribed to students for the treatment of prevalent mental
disorders. The purpose of this research was to ascertain the efficacy of
those given medications. As a crucial component of multimodal therapy
for individuals with emotional and behavioral requirements, the authors
emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts to address the issues
noted in the provision of medication. They argue that instructors and
family members of individuals with issues should be involved in the
treatment of the disorder.
This concise review clearly demonstrates that most of the previous
research has primarily focused on exploring obsessive-compulsive
disorder from psychological and medical viewpoints. The few research
papers from an Islamic perspective have not yet delved into the topic of
students dealing with obsessive-compulsive disorder. Given this, the
current study seeks to investigate different approaches to a prevalent
problem among students, from an Islamic viewpoint.
The core question of this research centered on whether the
teachings and practices of Islam address the psychological and spiritual
aspects of obsessive-compulsive disorder and, if yes, how and to what
extent. The discussion below explores the Islamic beliefs and practices
related to mental health, particularly obsessive-compulsive disorder, and
essential Islamic approaches of treating the disorder reflecting the main
goal of the research.
Method
This methodology outlines the approach for collecting and
selecting literature relevant to managing obsessive-compulsive disorder
among students through Islamic antidotes. The research utilized several
platforms, including PubMed for peer-reviewed articles on OCD
management, Google Scholar for a broad range of academic resources,
PsycINFO for psychological literature, ERIC for education-related studies,
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and institutional repositories from local universities like Gombe State
University. The literature collection yielded a total of twenty relevant
sources, comprising journal articles, books on Islamic counseling, a
thesis, and conference proceedings.
To further clarify the methodology for literature collection, the research
utilized specific strategies for identifying and selecting relevant studies
on managing obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) among students
through Islamic antidotes. The following details expand on the process:
Keywords Used
The literature search was guided by carefully selected keywords and
phrases, including:
i. "Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)"
ii. "Islamic counseling approaches"
iii. "Faith-based therapy for OCD"
iv. "Islamic psychology and mental health"
v. "OCD management among students"
vi. "Quranic therapy for mental health"
vii. "Islamic antidotes for OCD"
Range of Publication Time
The search focused on materials published between 2000 and 2024 to
ensure the inclusion of contemporary studies while retaining
foundational works on Islamic counseling and OCD management. This
range was chosen to balance relevance with recency, as the last two
decades have seen increased academic interest in integrating faith-
based approaches into mental health interventions.
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Method of Sorting and Selection
The collected studies were sorted and selected based on the following
criteria:
1.
Relevance:
Each source had to directly address the interplay of
Islamic counseling approaches and OCD management or contribute
foundational knowledge to these areas.
2.
Credibility:
Only peer-reviewed articles, accredited theses, and
recognized books were included. Conference proceedings were
included if they were from reputable academic or professional
gatherings.
3.
Contextual Applicability:
Priority was given to works focusing on
students or educational settings, particularly within the context of
Muslim societies or regions with significant Muslim populations.
4.
Methodological Rigor:
Sources employing empirical research
methods or providing theoretical insights were favored.
5.
Duplication Check:
Duplicate or overlapping materials were
removed to avoid redundancy.
The initial search identified over 100 sources. After reviewing abstracts
and applying the criteria above, the selection was narrowed to 20 key
sources. These 20 were chosen for their comprehensive treatment of the
topic, methodological soundness, and direct relevance to the research
objectives. This structured approach ensured a robust foundation for
analyzing the efficacy of Islamic antidotes in managing OCD among
students. In addition, a systematic review process was employed,
involving initial abstract readings to determine relevance, followed by
full-text reviews of the most pertinent sources. A scoring system was also
used to rank the literature based on these established criteria, ensuring a
comprehensive and high-quality selection for the study.
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Results and Discussion
Conceptualizing OCD in Islam
Obsessive-compulsive disorder is denoted by Muslim therapists
and Islamic scholars as ‘waswas’, a term that translates literally to
‘excessive doubts’ (Abdul Razak, 2014). According to a study by Mohd
Abdul Rahman Zahir and others (Zahir et al.,2021), the correlation
between obsessive-compulsive disorder and waswas stems from the
recurring nature of unfounded beliefs and actions. The notion of waswas,
as defined by Ibn Ashur (n.d.), pertains to the malevolent notions that
comprise the devil’s caste and exist within the human spirit. Components
comprising this syndrome include recurrent unsettling thoughts,
movements, ideas, or beliefs that an individual would ordinarily reject and
strive to overcome (Rassool et al. 2019). These are the defining features
of this condition.
In Islam, there is evidence suggesting that each person in the
world has a demon companion responsible for influencing the person to
commit evil deeds (al-Bukhari, n.d.). The devil will use all means
necessary to confuse and bewilder a person. Most cases of obsessive-
compulsive disorder may be associated with intense and acute doubts,
which are believed to be a mechanism by which Satan can influence
human minds. This is a contributing factor to the high prevalence of OCD
(Abdul Razak, 2014). Another tradition claims that demons move swiftly
throughout human beings, like the flow of blood (al-Bukhari, n.d., Hadith
no.2039 vol.3). If a person fails to take preventive steps against the
devil’s deceitful tactics, he may find himself unable to resist falling into a
condition of overwhelming uncertainty known as waswas (Zahir et al,
2021).
Furthermore, GH Rassool (2019) identified three sources from
which waswas originate: the soul that commands evil called an-nafs al-
ammara bi’as-su, the devils among the Jinn (also known as Satan or
demons), and the devils among men (also known as Shaytan al-insi). The
Nafs, also known as the self, the ego and the soul, is called the soul that
commands evil due to its inclination towards ill things. He also states that
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the waswas is vital and manifests in four various ways. These forms
include uncertainties or intrusive thoughts related to the notions of
ʿaqīdah (belief), ʿibādah (worship), ṭahārah (purification) and kwaf min
fuqdān al-saytara (fear of losing control). Thus, the waswas can be linked
to both psychological aspects like belief and fear of losing control, as well
as physical actions like worship and purification.
Signs and Symptoms of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Obsessive-compulsive disorder is marked by the presence of
compulsions, obsessions, or both. Ansari and Shahabi (2018) defined
obsessions as recurrent thoughts, desires, or mental images that are
associated with anxious emotions. The following are examples of
common obsessions: apprehension regarding germs or contamination;
anxiety regarding forgetfulness or misplacement; distress over losing
behavioral control; hostile thoughts toward oneself or others; unwelcome
thoughts concerning sexuality, religion, or harm; and an insatiable desire
for symmetry or orderliness (Gillan & Robbins, 2019). Gehring et al.
(2000) defined compulsions as behaviors that individuals are repeatedly
obligated to perform as a result of an obsessive thought. Common
compulsions include the following: excessive cleaning or hand washing;
meticulous item organization; repetitive inspection of secured doors or
turned-off furnaces; and compulsive counting.
Causes of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
A number of characteristics have been connected to an increased
risk of developing obsessive-compulsive disorder, although the precise
etiology of the condition remains obscure. Kamarul Zaman et al. (2022)
posit that heredity is one of the determinants of obsessive-compulsive
disorder. Research has indicated that an elevated risk of developing
obsessive-compulsive disorder is associated with having a first-degree
relative (self-affected sibling, parent, or child) diagnosed with the
disorder. Despite the absence of a singular gene or set of genes that
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confirm OCD as its definitive cause, researchers are presently conducting
investigations into the genetic component of the disorder.
There may be other biological factors at play, beyond genetics,
contributing to this phenomenon (Zaman et al., 2022). Studies using
brain imaging have shown that people with obsessive-compulsive
disorder often exhibit differences in the frontal cortex and subcortical
structures of the brain. These brain regions are crucial for regulating
behavior and emotional responses, as noted by Schoenfeld and
Konopasek (2007). Studies have revealed that various brain regions,
networks and biological processes are all crucial in the formation of
compulsive behaviors, obsessive thoughts and the related feelings of
dread and anxiety. Various social factors can contribute to the
development of obsessive-compulsive disorder, as discussed by Mohd
Rahman Zahir et al. (2021). These encompass negative past experiences
like bitter memories, feelings of sadness or stress, and various conflicts
such as separation, family problems, or loss.
Students and Obsessive-Compulsive disorder
Research has shown that individuals with obsessive-compulsive
disorder are significantly impacted by the condition in various ways. Due
to these effects, the students’ academic performance decreases
significantly, leading them to reconsider their learning methods or stop
learning altogether. Most of the time, it hinders students from focusing
on their studies or giving their complete attention to learning. Typically,
this is the scenario in most instances. When individuals are engaged in
studying or listening to a lecture, it can be difficult for them to absorb
information due to recurring distracting thoughts beyond their control. It
will be challenging for them to acquire the necessary knowledge. It will
also be hard for them to stay focused on the subject matter because of
this. Due to that effect, their ability to absorb information will be more
challenging than usual, which badly affects their overall learning
experience.
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Moreover, engaging in an excessive quantity of cross-checking will
inevitably consume a substantial portion of their time, thereby disrupting
their study schedule or academic task completion. Furthermore, humans
afflicted with obsessive-compulsive disorder are prone to participating in
compulsive and/or habitual behaviors, which may require an
exceptionally extended duration to accomplish. According to Choate-
Summers et al. (2008), such behavior may ultimately result in inadequate
time management, which may negatively impact students’ attendance or
tardiness in class, and their ability to meet assignment due dates.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder is additionally associated with an
increased susceptibility to social anxiety, a condition characterized by
social withdrawal (Veale & Roberts, 2014). This characteristic is
worrisome. They encounter challenges when it comes to engaging in
extracurricular activities or tasks that require collaborative efforts.
People afflicted with obsessive-compulsive disorder are
perpetually troubled by the dread of committing errors; consequently,
they frequently refrain from engaging in activities so as to avoid
committing errors (Moran, 2016). This constitutes a unique aspect of the
disease. Pupils will have less confidence in taking risks to acquire new
skills or improve those they have already acquired as a result of this
characteristic. As a result, the tendency to engage in risk-taking activities
will be significantly reduced, which will substantially impact their ability
to refine taught concepts. Whenever an individual experiences anxiety
due to compulsive concerns regarding their performance on a test or
examination, there is a likelihood that this apprehension will impair their
capacity to achieve optimal results. This phenomenon impairs their
cognitive functioning, thereby impeding their ability to retain information
and generate solutions to problems. Moreover, it possesses the capacity
to heighten their tension level, consequently augmenting the likelihood
that they will commit errors while responding to the evaluation inquiries.
In essence, students with OCD may academically struggle to
concentrate on their studies due to intrusive thoughts or spend excessive
time performing rituals, such as checking and rechecking assignments or
organizing materials meticulously. This can lead to difficulty completing
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assignments on time, lower grades and heightened stress levels. Fear of
making mistakes or not meeting self-imposed standards can also be a
significant source of anxiety for students with OCD, potentially leading to
academic imperfections. Socially, OCD may impact students’
relationships with peers. They may avoid social situations to prevent
triggers or rituals from being noticed, leading to isolation and loneliness.
Additionally, the need for orderliness or specific routines may disrupt
group activities or cause frustration among classmates who do not
understand the student’s behaviors.
Managing OCD in the academic setting requires a comprehensive
approach involving collaboration between students, parents, educators
and mental health professionals. Generally, supporting students with
OCD requires a collaborative and compassionate approach that
addresses their unique needs and challenges. By fostering awareness,
understanding and effective coping strategies, educators and mental
health professionals can help students thrive academically and socially
despite the challenges posed by OCD.
Managing Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder from an Islamic
Perspective
Managing obsessive-compulsive disorder through an Islamic lens
involves integrating spiritual practices, psychological techniques and
community support to address the symptoms effectively. This synthesis
draws on various scholarly sources, highlighting key Islamic principles
and therapeutic approaches that can be utilized in the management of
OCD.
1.
Understanding OCD in an Islamic Context
Literature emphasizes that OCD can be understood through both
psychological and spiritual frameworks. Qur’anic verses indicate the
need for Muslims to build strong trust and confidence in Allah so that they
will be free from mental and psychological distress (Qur’an 65:2-3).
Therefore these thoughts can be addressed through Islamic teachings.
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2.
Role of Spiritual Practices
Spiritual practices play a critical role in managing OCD symptoms.
Prayer (salah) is highlighted as a powerful tool for fostering mindfulness
and reducing anxiety (Qur’an 29:35). In addition, Allah informed that the
Qur’an is a cure and mercy for believers. It takes away whatever is in their
hearts of doubts, hypocrisy, shirk, confusion and inclination towards
falsehood. ‘We send down the Qur’an as a healing and mercy for the
believers, but it only increases the wrongdoers in loss’ (Qur’an, 17:82)
The prescribed Islamic methods for curing OCD consist of
preventive measures as well as the corrective. Also, there are some
exclusive methods for treating scrupulosity distinct from the general
OCD. The preventive measures include constant recitation of Qur’an,
especially Surah Al-aqarah, remembrance of Allah (ad-dhikr), and
pronouncement of ta’awwudh (seeking refuge of Allah from the devil)
(Zaman et al., 2022). The importance of recitation of baqarah in
combating the effect of the devil’s tricks and whispers is emphasized in
the prophetic traditions: ‘do not turn your house graveyards. Verily Satan
flees from the house in which surah al-baqarah is recited’ (Muslim, n. d.,
Ḥadith no.539 vol.1). Similarly, the Qur’an mentions the significance of
ta’awwudh pronouncement in shielding a person from the negative
effects of Satan and recommends the pronouncement at the beginning
of Qur’anic recitation. ‘So when you recite the Qur’an, (first) seek refuge
in Allah from Satan, the expelled (from the mercy of Allah)’ (Qur’an, 16:
98).
Other specific times for the pronouncing ta’awwudh have a close
connection with obsessional problems such as a time when angry or or
when having bad thoughts. Al-Bukhari recorded that Sulayman bin Surad
said, ‘Two men disputed in the presence of the Prophet while we were
sitting with him. One of them was cursing the other fellow and his face
turned red due to anger. The Prophet said, (I know of a statement which
if he said it, will make what he feels disappear, “I seek refuge with Allah
from the cursed Satan.”) They said to the man, “Do you not hear what the
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Messenger of Allah is saying”. He said, “I am not insane” ’ (Al-Bukhārī,
n.d., Ḥadith no. 6115 vol.7)
The Qur’an also says: ‘if you are tempted with Satan, then seek
refuge in Allah. Surely He is All-Hearing, All-Knowing. Indeed those who
fear Allah when an impulse touches them from Satan, they remember
(Him) and at once they have insight’ (Qur’an, 7:200–201).
According to Qur'anic commentator Qurtubi, the temptation of
Satan mentioned in the aforesaid verse is obsession and excessive
doubts (waswas). Thus, we can infer by this that pronouncing ta’awwudh
is one of the strongest preventive and corrective mechanisms for fighting
OCD.
Another preventive as well as corrective technique for treating
OCD is remembrance of Allah dhikr day and night; the supplications
popularly known as Azkar al-Sabah wal-Masaa (Rassool 2019).
With regard to the corrective method of fighting mental disorder
Muslim scholars recommended ruqyah (incantation) for the treatment of
OCD. Ruqyah consist of recitation of the Qur’an and/or other
supplications with the hope that Allah will remove an ailment or disorder.
This is asserted by Kamarul Zaman et al., (2022) where they maintain that
ruqyah is divided into two categories: ruqyah which is compliant with the
Islamic jurisprudence (Ruqyah Ash Shariah) and the deviant ruqyah
which contains polytheistic practices (Ruqyah Ash Shirkiyyah), stressing
that the former is one of the strongest way of recovering or combating
any mental or psychological disorder because a specific chapter was
revealed as a protection from obsession (waswas), that is Suratu an-Nas
(Qur’an, chapter 114).
In addition, Abdul Razak (2014) suggested four ways of Islamic
treatment of OCD, namely: Iman Restoration Therapy; knowledge
instilment; inner struggle (mujahadah); and discipline (riyadah).
Reviving iman (faith) in one’s heart can incorporate cognitive, emotive,
spiritual and behavioral approaches. The light of faith will remove
intrusive thoughts which are the source of OCD from a person’s heart.
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Knowledge will help a person to attain certainty and by continuous inner
struggle (mujahadah) and discipline (riyadah), a person will gradually
transform and be free from obsessional psychosis. Therefore, through
constant engagements in these acts of worship and seeking refuge
students can regain their concentration and develop a greater
understanding of their mental processes. These acts provide peace of
mind in the time of anxiety and as such it can alleviate students’
immediate obsession, thereby granting them ease to focus on study. This
will help in no small measure in combating the disorder of OCD.
However, Islam deals with scrupulosity which is a kind of OCD that
relates to religion and morality in a very specific manner. In scrupulosity
an individual may be overpowered by religious obsessions which can lead
to compulsive religious practices and rituals. Fear of committing sin or
blasphemous thoughts, cleaning or washing rituals, excessive doubts in
the performance of rituals, repeatedly washing of some organs during
ablution and purification or ritual bath are among the common examples
of scrupulosity OCD. The scrupulosity that deals with hearts, especially
those that have to do with Allah, making one to be afraid and full of
distress, are manageable through the Islamic way by fighting and
resisting doubts from the heart and pronouncement of ta’awwudh.
Muslims have to denounce that in their heart and with their tongue, and
be those who object to it the most, for it is only whispers and thoughts
that cross their mind and they also have to remember Allah and control
themselves and do not continue to think of these whispers (Al-Munajjid
Salih, n.d. ). This is buttressed in the Prophetic Hadith which says: ‘The
Satan comes to every one of you and says: Who created this and that? till
he questions: Who created your Lord? When he comes to that, one should
seek refuge in Allah and keep away (from such idle thoughts)’ (Muslim n.
d., Hadith no.214 Vol.1).
There are a number of ways to treat the scrupulosity that has to do
with ritual practices (ibadah). Firstly, it is recommended that when a
person enters the mosque he should recite a supplication that will cause
Satan to flee from him. The supplication is from the prophetic tradition
that When the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, entered the
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mosque, he would say, “I seek refuge in Allah Almighty, in his noble
countenance, and in his everlasting authority from the accursed Satan”’
(Sulayman, n.d., Hadith no. 466 Vol.1). This supplication safeguards a
person from Satanic whispers in his ibadah (worship). In addition a
person need not pay attention to the excessive waswas that usually
comes to him during worship because it is uncertainty without any
evidence or reason (Al-Munajjid Salih n. d. ).
3.
Islamic Counseling Techniques
Islamic counseling techniques involve integrating cognitive-
behavioral strategies with spiritual practices. Ali (2020) discusses the
use of cognitive restructuring, where individuals are guided to challenge
their intrusive thoughts in light of Islamic teachings. This approach
encourages the replacement of negative thought patterns with positive
affirmations rooted in faith.
4.
Community Support
Community plays a vital role in the management of OCD within the
Islamic context. Schoenfeld and Konopasek (2007) note that social
support from family and peers can significantly enhance coping
mechanisms. Encouraging open discussions about mental health in
Islamic communities fosters understanding and reduces stigma, allowing
individuals to seek help without fear of judgment.
Flowchart of the OCD Handling Process from an Islamic Perspective
The following flowchart illustrates the process of managing OCD
from an Islamic perspective, integrating spiritual and psychological
strategies:
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Figure 1.
OCD Handling Process from an Islamic Perspective
In summary, managing OCD from an Islamic perspective involves
a holistic approach that combines spiritual practices, cognitive-
behavioral techniques and community support. By engaging in prayer,
reciting the Qur’an, and fostering open communication within the
community, individuals can effectively navigate the challenges of OCD.
This integrated method not only addresses the symptoms of OCD but also
promotes overall mental well-being and spiritual growth.
The table below represents the summary of the main results of the
thematic analysis:
Recognize OCD signs
Engage in salah (prayer)
Recite the Qur'an and make
du'a
Cognitive restructuring
(challenge intrusive thoughts)
Seek community support
(family, friends, counselors)
Monitor and reflect on
progress and growth
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Table 1.
Results of Thematic Analysis
S/N
Theme
Description
Reference
1
OCD in Islam
Equate to waswas in
Islamic context OCD
due to recurring
thoughts and actions
Abdul Razak (2014),
MohdAbdul Rahman
Zahir et al. (2021),
Rassool (2019)
2
Sources of intrusive thoughts
(waswas)
Soul that command evil
called an-nafs al-
ammara bi’s-su, the
devils among the Jinn
(also known as Satan or
demons), and the devils
among men (also
known as shaytan al-
insi)
Rasool (2019)
3
Manifestation of waswas
Four various ways in
which intrusive
thoughts manifested
are in notions of aqidah
(belief), ibadah
(worship), ṭahārah
(purification), and kwaf
min fuqdān al-saytara
(fear of losing control)
Rasool (2019)
4
Signs and symptoms of OCD
Obsessions: fear of
germs, contamination,
forgetfulness, losing
control, and anxiety
over harm, symmetry
Ansari and Shahabi
(2018), Gillan and
Robbins (2019),
Gehring et al. (2000)
5
Causes of OCD
Genetic factors,
negative experiences
like trauma or stress
and brain structural
differences
Kamarul Zaman et al.
(2022), Schoenfeld and
Konopasek (2007),
Rahman et al. (2021)
6
OCD’s negative impact on students
Decreased academic
performance, lack of
Choate-Summers et al.
(2008), Veale &
Samalia, Maikamba, Hasan, Jungudo
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focus during lecture,
anxiety during
examination, excessive
cross-checking,
isolation and inability to
learn from peers.
Roberts (2014), Moran
(2016)
7
Islamic ways to manage OCD
It can be addressed
through trust in God,
recitation of the Qur’an
and remembrance of
Allah particularly
recitation of chapter of
baqarah, seeking refuge
from Allah and Ruqyah
Ash Shariiyyah,
Ibrahim (2019),
Mansour & Al-Subaie
(2021), Abdulaziz
(2022)
Recommendations
1. Mental health practitioners and educators should consider integrating
Islamic practices into OCD treatment programs, particularly for
students from Muslim backgrounds. This integration can provide
additional support and resources aligned with students’ religious
beliefs and practices.
2. There is a need for raising awareness among students, educators and
mental health professionals about the potential efficacy of Islamic
strategies in managing OCD. Educational initiatives and workshops
can facilitate understanding and implementation of these practices.
3. Collaboration between religious scholars, mental health professionals
and educators is essential for developing comprehensive strategies to
address OCD among students. By leveraging the expertise of different
stakeholders, tailored interventions can be designed to meet the
unique needs of students affected by OCD.
4. Continued research is needed to explore the effectiveness and
feasibility of Islamic strategies in managing OCD among students.
Longitudinal studies and randomized controlled trials can provide
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valuable insights into the long-term efficacy of these practices and
their impact on students’ academic performance and overall well-
being.
5. It is crucial for interventions to be culturally sensitive and respectful of
diverse religious beliefs and practices. While Islamic strategies may be
effective for some students, alternative approaches should also be
available to accommodate individuals with different cultural and
religious backgrounds.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this research delved into the management of obsessive-
compulsive disorder among students through the utilization of Islamic
antidotes. The study explored the Islamic perspective on OCD, its
conceptualization within Islam, signs and symptoms, causes, and its
impact on students’ academic performance. Through a qualitative
approach, the researchers conducted a thematic content analysis of
conventional Islamic literature, books and scholarly articles to derive
significant themes, concepts and practices related to OCD management
within an Islamic framework. From an Islamic perspective, OCD is often
referred to as waswas, denoting excessive doubts, which aligns closely
with the diagnostic criteria of OCD in psychological literature. Islamic
scholars and therapists attribute the origins of waswas to malevolent
notions from the devil and emphasize its association with recurrent
unsettling thoughts and compulsive behaviors. Various preventive and
therapeutic strategies rooted in Islamic teachings were identified,
including recitation of specific Qur’anic verses such as Surah Al-Baqarah
and seeking refuge in Allah through ta’awwudh. Additionally, the practice
of ruqyah (incantation) was highlighted as an effective approach,
particularly Al-Ruqyah Al-Shar’iyyah which aligns with Islamic law. The
study emphasized the significance of integrating Islamic remedies with
conventional therapeutic modalities such as cognitive-behavioral
therapy and pharmacological treatments to ensure a holistic approach to
OCD management. Moreover, it underscored the importance of
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educators being aware of students’ psychological challenges and
collaborating with health care professionals and families to support
students’ mental well-being. Overall, the research provided valuable
insights into managing OCD among students through Islamic antidotes,
highlighting the complementary role of Islamic practices in alleviating
symptoms and promoting mental well-being within educational settings.
Further studies could explore the efficacy of integrating Islamic remedies
with conventional treatments in clinical settings and educational
institutions to provide comprehensive care for individuals with OCD.
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