The religious and cultural influences in the development of mental health perceptions in young Muslim people in the UK

Idjer, Iman

Abstract

Understanding the impact of religion and culture on mental health perceptions of young Muslims is important because of the lack of support and access for young Muslims in mental health services. Literature: The Muslim Youth Helpline (2020) presented a 313% rise in Muslim mental health, especially following Covid-19. Studies that have looked specifically at mental health in Muslims are limited, however the few that are available suggest that Muslims in Western countries did not often use the services provided. It is reported that British Muslims cannot access culturally or religiously sensitive health professionals and are unlikely to seek mental health help in primary care. They have limited awareness on how to get help for their mental health and it is more likely for them to be prescribed medication than referred to therapy; they are also expected to end up in the criminal justice system. Methodology: qualitative research was implemented for this research, with grounded theory guiding data collection and analysis. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 young Muslims exploring their perceptions of mental health through the lens of religion and culture. Results: The analysis of data led to one main category: Navigating Complex Multiplicities with seven subcategories: Expectations in Culture, Generational Guilt, Perspectives of Mental Health, Affect, Individual Discovery, Resources in Religion and Connection to Self. The grounded theory that derived from the analysis of the participants’ accounts demonstrates the interactions and processes that young Muslims go through as they develop their mental health perceptions. Conclusion: The findings of this research provide empirical insight into the processes that young Muslims go through to construct their meaning of mental health difficulties, providing insight into their experience. This research has identified that young Muslims’ perception of mental health is impacted by layers of dualities that highlight the way they navigate and negotiate their perceptions. The implication of this research seeks to contribute to understanding for services to facilitate and accommodate for the needs of young Muslims whilst incorporating the varied religious-cultural circumstances to increase the effectiveness of the psychotherapeutic approaches.

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: Feb 22, 2023
• Publicly Available Date: Oct 6, 2023
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/10479586
• Award Date: Oct 6, 2023