Dealing with Stress

The worry-free days of childhood are long behind us. Without the right strategies and the proper mindset, getting through life's daily challenges can seem like an uphill battle. There are plenty of feel-good tactics that you can employ from exercise to positive thinking and these do have a place in the life of a Muslim. But you can supplement these practices with a level of reassurance and faith that comes from placing your trust in God and engaging in prayer. Here are a few ways that you can deal with any difficult obstacle that comes your way:

1) Pray 5 times a day: 

 I've always found that I achieved a sense of calmness and peace immediately after prayer. It didn't mean that whatever was troubling me at the time was resolved nor did it mean that I was simply ignoring the problem. Prayer, however, reassured me that I'm not alone in dealing with it, that a more powerful hand has a role in the way things turn out and that I just have to trust Him. 

The Prophet once said that in prayer, he would find rest and relief (Nasai). He would also regularly ask for God's forgiveness and remain in prostration during prayer praising God (Tasbeeh) and asking for His forgiveness (Bukhari). 

2) Make Du'a regularly and with faith: 

Recognizing that Allah (S.W.T.) is the One who controls everything is essential when dealing with a problem. This is why it is critical to take Him as our confidante and call onto Him if one encounters difficulties. Have faith in Him and do not despair. 

Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported, “The Messenger of Allah (PBUH), ‘The supplication of every one of His slaves will be granted as long as he does not get impatient and say, “I supplicated to my Rubb again and again but I do not think my prayer will be answered." [Al-Bukhari, Muslim].

It also just as important to trust that Allah (S.W.T.) is omniscent and knows all that is hidden and revealed. Have faith that whatever happens, happens for the best and be at peace with it.

"It may be that you hate something when it is good for you and it may be that you love something when it is bad for you. Allah (S.W.T.) knows and you know not." [Sura al-Baqara, 216] 

3) Try your best and leave the rest to Allah (S.W.T.):

Having the fortitude that comes with knowing that Allah (S.W.T.) is on your side should not lull you into complacence. Continue trying your best and exerting yourself to the best of your ability to resolve the problems you face. This may involve some creativity on your part or reaching out to other fellow Muslims. Whatever the case may be, you must not give into despair and stop trying. Do your part and leave the rest to Allah (S.W.T.)

"Allah (S.W.T) does not change a people's lot unless they change what is in their hearts." [Sura al-Ira'd: 11].

One day, Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H.) noticed a Bedouin leaving his camel without tying it. He asked the Bedouin, "Why don't you tie down your camel?" The Bedouin answered, "I put my trust in Allah." The Prophet then said, "Tie your camel first, then put your trust in Allah" (Tirmidhi). 

4) Even the Prophets were tested! 

During difficult moments, we may find ourselves wondering why Allah (S.W.T.) is testing us even though we may be doing our best to be good Muslims. It may help to know that Allah (S.W.T.) tested even the best of his followers i.e. the Prophets. For example, Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) became acquainted with deep sorrow at a very tender age when he lost his father, his mother and his grandfather in very early childhood. Simply revisiting the Seerah will present a record of seemingly insurmountable obstacles that might have broken a lesser person. If Allah (S.W.T.) in his infinite wisdom tested the best of all human beings, we certainly can't claim any special exemption either! This isn't cause for despair however. On the contrary, the stories of our Prophets can be a source of inspiration and motivation for us during our difficult times! 

"Or do ye think that ye shall enter the Garden (of bliss) without such (trials) as came to those who passed away before you? they encountered suffering and adversity, and were so shaken in spirit that even the Messenger and those of faith who were with him cried: "When (will come) the help of Allah?" Ah! Verily, the help of Allah is (always) near! [Sura Al-Baqara, 214]

5) This life is temporary:

Always remember that this life is just temporary and in that same vein, all difficulties are also transient. If you begin to feel overwhelmed, remind yourself that you are not given any test which you would be unable to handle. You are given the tools you need to solve any issue. It is only a matter of what you choose and how you do it!

"Allah puts no burden on any person beyond what He has given him. After a difficulty, Allah will soon grant relief." [Sura Al-Talaqa, 7].

In life, we may sometimes find ourselves in positions where we feel entirely helpless and it is in moments like these when turning to our Creator can be just what we need to overcome obstacles. With the right mindset and faith, you can overcome just about any problem, Insha-Allah!