Understanding Mental Health in Muslim Communities

Course Overview

What skills and knowledge will you acquire during this course?
Skills and knowledge that will be acquired during this course include:

- Understanding the experiences of Muslims in relation to mental health and the barriers they face in accessing mainstream services.
- Learning techniques and skills to provide effective mental health support to Muslim communities.
- Gaining knowledge about the various mental health problems commonly experienced by Muslims, such as depression and anxiety, as well as the impact of factors like Islamophobia and refugee status on mental health.
- Exploring the inclusion of spirituality as a factor in understanding mental health and creating environments where Muslim clients feel comfortable discussing their faith and mental health.
- Reflecting on holistic frameworks within religious and spiritual support to improve care for Muslim communities and increase recovery rates.
- Developing a deeper understanding of the distinct ways in which mental health issues affect Muslim communities.
- Acquiring skills to provide more effective access and care to minority groups in mental health support roles, such as medical or social care professionals and religious pastoral carers.
- Gaining knowledge about Islam and mental health care practice for those who are interested.

How does this course contribute to professional growth?
This course contributes to professional growth by providing participants with the knowledge and skills to effectively support Muslim communities in their mental health needs. By understanding the unique experiences and challenges faced by Muslims in accessing mental health services, professionals can create more accessible routes to support. Additionally, participants will learn about the impact of faith on mental health and how to create environments where Muslim clients feel comfortable discussing their faith and mental health. This holistic approach to pastoral care, guided by experts at Cardiff University, will enhance care and increase recovery rates for minority groups.

Is this course suitable for preparing further education?
This course is suitable for individuals who provide mental health support in Muslim communities, such as medical or social care professionals or religious pastoral carers. It is also suitable for individuals who want to learn more about Islam or mental health care practice.