The Prophet’s Manners and Sunnah When Facing Anxiety or Worry
Anxiety, worry, and restlessness are part of life that are often experienced by humans. Islam provides clear guidance in dealing with this situation through the manners and sunnah taught by the Prophet ﷺ. Here are some steps that can be taken to overcome anxiety according to Islamic teachings:
1. Increase Prayer and Dhikr
When feeling anxious, the Prophet ﷺ taught his people to pray and remember Allah. One of the prayers taught to relieve anxiety is:
“Allahumma inni a’udzu bika minal-hammi wal-hazan, wal-‘ajzi wal-kasal, wal-bukhli wal-jubni, wa dhala’id-dayni wa ghalabatir-rijal.”
(Meaning: O Allah, I seek refuge in You from anxiety and sadness, from weakness and laziness, from stinginess and cowardice, and from debt bondage and human pressure.) (HR. Bukhari)
2. Be patient and trust in Allah
Allah says in the Qur’an:
“And whoever puts his trust in Allah, Allah will surely fulfill (his needs).” (QS. At-Talaq: 3)
Tawakal means handing over all matters to Allah after trying your best. By being patient and trusting, the heart will be calmer when facing trials.
3. Perform prayers and ask for Allah’s help
The Prophet ﷺ taught that one of the best ways to overcome anxiety is to pray. Allah says:
“Make patience and prayer your helpers.” (QS. Al-Baqarah: 45)
Prayer gives peace of mind and makes a person closer to Allah.
4. Increase Istighfar
Asking Allah for forgiveness by doing more istighfar is another way to get rid of anxiety. Rasulullah ﷺ said:
“Whoever makes more istighfar, Allah will make for him a way out of every difficulty, and provide sustenance from unexpected directions.” (HR. Abu Dawud)
5. Read the Koran and reflect on its meaning
Reading the Koran can calm the heart for people who are anxious. Allah says:
“Remember, only by remembering Allah can your heart be at peace.” (QS. Ar-Ra’d: 28)
The verses of the Koran contain many lessons and promises from Allah that can provide calm and optimism.
6. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Rasulullah ﷺ exemplified a balanced life between worship and maintaining health. A good diet, enough sleep, and exercise can help reduce anxiety and maintain mental balance.
7. Give Alms and Do Good
The Prophet ﷺ taught that one way to eliminate anxiety is to help others. He said:
“Treat the sick among you with alms.” (Narrated by Baihaqi)
By giving alms, the heart becomes lighter and happier.
8. Avoid Negative Thoughts and Think Good of Allah
Anxiety often arises from thinking too negatively. The Prophet ﷺ taught to always think good of Allah, because Allah is in accordance with the expectations of His servants (Narrated by Bukhari and Muslim).
Conclusion
Feelings of worry and anxiety can be overcome by following the manners and sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ, such as praying, remembering Allah, praying, reading the Qur’an, relying on Him, and doing good. By practicing these Islamic teachings, the heart will be calmer and the mind will be clearer. May we always be given peace and blessings in life. Amen.
