Muslims and mental health concerns: A social ecological model perspective

J Community Psychol. 2019 May;47(4):964-978. doi: 10.1002/jcop.22166. Epub 2019 Feb 7.

Abstract

Muslims in the United States experience many psychosocial issues and underutilize mental health services. This study sought to systematically identify the common issues and strengths of the Muslims affiliated with a college in the Southeast region of the United States and address them accordingly. A survey comprising 33 items and 2 open-ended questions regarding common issues and strengths was constructed. A total of 116 participants completed the survey. The overall rating for items was quite high, whereas the satisfaction rating was very low. The most important item was, "You have prayer places/rugs, ablution stations, and water in restrooms," with an importance rating of 94.52% and a satisfaction rating of 20.50%. Four items regarding mental health were rated as the least important, and participants reported lack of knowledge regarding mental health services. This is the first study that includes a list of common concerns and strengths of the Muslim communities affiliated with colleges in the United States.

Keywords: Muslims in the United States; Muslims’ mental health; community collaboration; counseling; psychosocial issues and strengths; social ecological model.

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Humans
  • Islam*
  • Male
  • Mental Health Services*
  • Mental Health*
  • Personal Satisfaction
  • Southeastern United States
  • Students*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Universities*
  • Young Adult