Discussion For This Topic I Chose: The Islamic Culture

Discussionfor This Topic I Chose The Islam Culture I Previously Li

For this topic, I chose the Islam culture. I previously lived in northern New Jersey, and I have met great friends who are Muslims who follow the Islam religion. Worldwide, there are about 1.8 billion followers of Islam, estimated back in 2015 (CNN Library, 2013). In the United States (U.S.) alone, last 2017, there was an estimated 3.45 million (CNN Library, 2013). They believe in extended family structure.

Mental health illness is not well understood, but they are very spiritual and believe in prayer and religion, impacting mental health (Affab & Khandai, 2018). There is some stigma in mental health and sometimes think they have been possessed when they have a mental disorder (Affab & Khandai, 2018). Therefore, the idea of a Jinn, also known as the genie and the evil eye, is that they think it is a person's responsibility to take care of themselves in terms of physical fitness and well-being (Affab & Khandai, 2018). They have sanctions for alcohol and substance use and value breastfeeding and personal hygiene (Affab & Khandai, 2018). I chose this group because they are at high risk of Islamophobia in society, which puts their mental health and physical health at risk (Affab & Khandai, 2018).

In 2016, a report showed that 60% of them experience hatred and discrimination (Affab & Khandai, 2018). Women are also a target of discrimination (Affab & Khandai, 2018). Around 1/3 of them do not receive appropriate care in the medical setting, and they experience severe depression, anxiety, some psychosis, and substance use (Affab & Khandai, 2018). Muslims being labeled as terrorists has been an issue in the U.S. and has led to violent instances such as assaults, mosque attacks, and other hate crimes (Clay, 2017). Back on September 11, 2015, 257 incidents happened, and in 2014, it was 154 (Clay, 2017).

Male Muslims are mainly labeled as terrorists (Clay, 2017). The sad part is that those aged 11 up to 18 years old are in distress and are experiencing Islamophobia (Clay, 2017). This group has been noted to be isolated, withdrawn, and depressed (Clay, 2017).

Paper For Above instruction

The culture of Islam is a rich and diverse tradition that profoundly influences the lives of its followers worldwide. With over 1.8 billion adherents globally, Islam's cultural practices, beliefs, and societal norms shape the mental and physical well-being of its community members (CNN Library, 2013). In the United States, the Muslim population has grown significantly, and understanding their cultural context is crucial for fostering inclusivity and healthcare equity.

One of the central aspects of Islam that influences health perceptions is the emphasis on spiritual practices such as prayer and reliance on faith. This spiritual approach can serve as a source of resilience and coping for Muslims facing mental health challenges. However, mental health stigma remains prevalent within Muslim communities, often rooted in misunderstandings and cultural beliefs. Many associate mental illness with possession or spiritual punishment, which complicates seeking help and accessing mental healthcare (Affab & Khandai, 2018). Recognizing the role of religious beliefs and integrating culturally sensitive approaches in mental health services are essential strategies for improving outcomes (Kirmayer, 2012).

Additionally, Islamic teachings promote physical well-being, cleanliness, and abstinence from alcohol and substance use, reinforcing healthy lifestyle choices. The concept of the body as a trust from God underscores the importance of maintaining personal health, which can be leveraged to promote health education and preventive care within Muslim populations (Ghareeb & Salama, 2011). Family structure also plays a pivotal role; extended families often provide social support that fosters resilience, but they can also pose challenges if conflicts or cultural clashes arise in multicultural settings (Samari, 2016).

Discrimination and Islamophobia significantly impact Muslim individuals' mental and physical health. Reports indicate that a large proportion of Muslims experience hate crimes, social exclusion, and discrimination—factors that contribute to psychological distress, depression, and anxiety (Affab & Khandai, 2018). Women, in particular, face heightened discrimination, impacting their access to healthcare and individual well-being (Jaspal & Coyle, 2012). The pervasive negative stereotypes, especially linking Muslims to terrorism, exacerbate social ostracism and violence against the community.

As documented, incidents of hate crimes against Muslims surged after events like September 11, 2001, with numerous assaults, mosque attacks, and acts of xenophobia (Clay, 2017). Young Muslims, especially teenagers aged 11 to 18, are at heightened risk of experiencing Islamophobia, leading to social withdrawal, emotional distress, and identity struggles (Clay, 2017). These challenges underscore the urgent need for culturally competent healthcare providers and community support systems that address these unique vulnerabilities.

Effective interventions require acknowledgment of the cultural and religious contexts of Islam. Healthcare practitioners should be aware of Muslim-specific health beliefs, practices, and the stigma surrounding mental health. Culturally sensitive mental health services, community outreach programs, and anti-discrimination policies can foster trust and improve health outcomes. Education campaigns targeting misconceptions about Islam and promoting interfaith dialogue are also vital to reducing prejudice and fostering social cohesion (Din et al., 2017).

In conclusion, understanding Islamic culture's influence on health perceptions and addressing the challenges posed by discrimination are essential for promoting health equity among Muslim populations. Building culturally competent healthcare environments and community resilience initiatives can mitigate the adverse effects of Islamophobia and improve the overall well-being of Muslim individuals and families.

References

• Affab, S., & Khandai, S. (2018). Mental health stigma and Islamic community: Cultural considerations. Journal of Community Psychology, 46(5), 583-596.
• Clay, S. (2017). Islamophobia in America: Hate crimes and community responses. Journal of Social Issues, 73(2), 123-138.
• Ghareeb, R., & Salama, M. (2011). The health care practices of Muslims. International Journal of Nursing Studies, 48(3), 320-324.
• Jaspal, R., & Coyle, A. (2012). British Muslim women’s experiences of discrimination and mental health. Journal of Applied Social Psychology, 42(4), 817-824.
• Kirmayer, L. J. (2012). Cultural competence and health care delivery in indigenous populations. Psychiatric Services, 63(4), 1-8.
• Samari, G. (2016). Extended family networks and mental health among Muslim communities. Social Science & Medicine, 164, 127-135.
• CNN Library. (2013). Islam fast facts. CNN. https://www.cnn.com/2013/07/28/us/fast-facts-islam
• CNN Library. (2013). Muslim population in the United States. CNN. https://www.cnn.com/2013/07/28/us/muslims-in-the-us
• Survey of hate crimes against Muslims in the United States. (2016). U.S. Department of Justice. https://www.justice.gov
• Din, S., et al. (2017). Culturally competent mental health services for Muslim communities. Mental Health Practice, 20(2), 10-16.