Muslim faith healers' views on substance misuse and psychosis

Abstract

It has been found that the Muslim population in the UK seek spiritual advice from traditional faith healers for psychiatric and related problems. The important role that religious beliefs may have on perceptions of mental illness and substance misuse warrants further investigation. The aims were to examine the views of Muslims faith healers on symptoms and changes in behaviour commonly described as “psychosis” and “substance misuse”. Eight semi-structured interviews were conducted with Muslim faith healers from various backgrounds. Data were analysed according to the conventions of qualitative research using grounded theory methods. Religious conceptualisations played a key role in the understanding of both the disorders and consequently the guidance given. There were similarities and differences in the narratives given for psychosis and substance misuse. Healers expressed doubt towards other faith healers and the methods utilised by scientific means. The findings suggest a need for close collaboration between faith healers and mental health workers in order to achieve a culturally sensitive health care system.

Keywords:

• Muslim
• psychosis
• substance misuse
• faith healers
• help seeking

Acknowledgements

We thank each of the participants, who constituted the sample for the research and whose candour made this study possible.

Notes

Notes

1. Pir: Also referred to as “Shaikh”, usually offer counselling and advice; Imam: Leader of mosque and community; Mullah: Teach in a type of Islamic school known as a Madrasah.

2. Arabic for Satan.