Last week, the world celebrated World Mental Health Day, and I hope you had the chance to attend some of the wonderfully put-together pivotal presentations and discussions that turn awareness into action.

These conversations are vital because they remind us that mental health is not a passing concern or a personal weakness, but it is a part of our overall wellbeing. Caring for your mind deserves as much attention as caring for your body.

We live in a world where people rush to fix a cough, a sprain, or a fever; but often ignore the pain inside their minds. Mental health is not a luxury; it is a necessity.

Just as our bodies fall ill and need rest, our hearts and minds too can become weary, burdened, or broken. Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health, because the two are deeply intertwined.

The Koran reminds us that “verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest” (Surah Ar-Ra’d 13:28). This verse calls us to seek peace through reflection, prayer, and remembrance.

True wellness begins within — when the heart is at ease and the mind is calm. Yet, for many, mental struggles are hidden behind smiles, masked by shame or fear of judgment. It is time to leave behind taboos about mental illness and embrace the understanding that seeking help, comfort, or treatment is not weakness — it is wisdom.

Our beloved Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said: “There is no disease that Allah has created, except that He also has created its treatment.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)

This Hadith encompasses both physical and mental ailments. Islam encourages us to seek help when we are unwell, whether the pain is of the body or the soul. Just as we would consult a doctor for a persistent cough, we should not hesitate to reach out to a counsellor, therapist, imam, or trusted friend when our mind feels heavy. Seeking help is an act of strength and self-respect.

Self-respect is the regard and esteem you hold for yourself, grounded in your dignity, values, and worth. It shapes how you expect to be treated — and how you treat others in return. As a cornerstone of wellbeing, self-respect nurtures emotional balance, resilience, and inner peace. Respect, whether given or received, nourishes the body, mind, and soul.

Peace of mind is a priceless treasure; one that cannot be bought, but must be cultivated. It begins with acknowledging that you, too, deserve care, rest, and healing. Too often, especially in families and communities, we carry the weight of everyone else’s needs while neglecting our own. We tell ourselves that self-sacrifice is love — but love that leaves you empty is not sustainable. You cannot pour from an empty cup.

Prophet Muhammad said: “Your body has a right over you, your eyes have a right over you, and your wife (or husband) has a right over you.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)

This Hadith teaches balance. Self-care is not selfishness; it is justice. You are part of the trust (amanah) Allah has given you — and preserving your wellbeing is part of your worship. When you tend to your mental and emotional health, you become a better parent, spouse, friend, and believer. You nurture from a place of fullness, not fatigue. After all, peace of mind is the ultimate goal.

In many cultures, mental illness is still wrapped in silence. People whisper about depression, anxiety, or trauma as though they are marks of weakness or lack of faith. Yet, even the most righteous among us faced emotional pain.

Prophet Yaqub (Jacob) wept until his eyes turned white with grief over losing Yusuf (Joseph). Prophet Muhammad felt deep sorrow after the loss of Khadijah (RA) and his uncle Abu Talib — a time known as “The Year of Sorrow”. Their pain did not diminish their faith; it revealed their humanity. Breaking the silence is a must to set your humility free.

Acknowledging your struggles does not mean you lack faith — it means you are human. Faith is not the absence of difficulty; it is the strength to face it with hope and trust in Allah.

Self-preservation is key and setting boundaries is necessary. It is not harsh to protect your peace; it is necessary. Allah commands us to show kindness and compassion, but nowhere does He ask us to allow others to exhaust or exploit us. Be caring, but firm. Be loving, but wise. Do not let others — even your loved ones — take you for granted.

The Koran teaches balance: “And those who, when they spend, are neither extravagant nor stingy, but hold a medium way between those (extremes).” (Surah Al-Furqan 25:67)

Apply this same principle to your energy and your time. Give generously, but not until it hurts your soul. Set boundaries gently but clearly. Tell those around you that your health, both mental and physical, is sacred. You are number one not out of pride, but out of necessity. When you protect your peace, you protect your ability to serve, love, and live well.

Caring for your mental health can take many forms — prayer, reflection, therapy, journalling, nature walks, reciting the Koran, or simply resting.

Healing is not always quick or linear, but every small step counts. Speak kindly to yourself. Forgive yourself. Trust that Allah’s mercy is greater than your pain and the path to healing.

Remember, peace of mind is the ultimate success. The Prophet said: “Whoever among you wakes up physically healthy, feeling safe and secure, and has his food for the day, it is as if he possesses the whole world.” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi)

Health, safety, and contentment — these are the real treasures. Cherish them, nurture them, and protect them. Your mind, your heart, and your spirit deserve as much care as your body.

Bermuda, continue to pray for healing and peace within our shores just as we continue to pray for peace, justice and harmony around the globe.

May the upcoming week be filled with goodness and mercy for us all.

As salaam alaikum (peace be unto you).

• Linda Walia Ming is a member of the Bermuda Hijab Dawah Team, a group of Muslim women who reside in Bermuda and have a goal of educating the community about the religion of Islam