Divorce and Mental Health in the Muslim Community

This is a workshop on Divorce and Mental Health in the Muslim Community, taking place for 3.5 hours virtually and in-person at the  Idea Store – Whitechapel (Lab 3), 321 Whitechapel Road, London, E1 1BU, UK.

About this event:

“And if you have reason to fear that a breach might occur between a (married couple),appoint an arbiter from among his people and an arbiter from among her people; if they both want to set things aright, God may bring about their reconciliation” [Qur’an 4:35]

Divorce is something that is made permissible in Islam. Allah provides general guidelines for the process of divorce with emphasis on both parties upholding the values of justice and kindness in formalising the end to their marriage. It can be an extremely difficult step to take for either party involved which can be compounded by stigma within the community. Whatever the reason for the divorce may be – it is pertinent divorcees and those considering divorce are given the tools to navigate through and post a divorce, especially as a life-changing decision this impacts the mental health of those involved severely. Divorce and separation have a specific and long-term impact on mental health.

By attending this workshop, you will learn:

1. An understanding of the impact of divorce on mental health including reducing stigma as an Ummah
2. Understand the Islamic perspective on divorce including Prophetic examples
3. Recognise the impact of parental divorce on kids and aim to reduce this
4. Understand how to support yourself and others going through a divorce
5. Some key characteristics to implement Islamic teachings into practice with regards to divorce
6. Practical and spiritual advice on how to better mental health and wellbeing along with self-care, and where to obtain additional support or information.

This workshop will be highly interactive, with many discussions including lived experiences from the facilitators, and case studies to work through as a group. You will also receive a certificate of attendance.

Divorce has been shown to significantly increase the risk for mental health problems such as depression, substance abuse or anxiety in men and women (Leopold, 2018, Richards et al., 1997).

By attending this workshop, you will be contributing towards the mission of improving the mental health and wellbeing of the Ummah and yourself, In Shaa Allah!

Date and Time:

• Saturday, 12th August 2023 at 11am – HYBRID (available in-person AND online over Zoom – details will be emailed to those who purchase the virtual option)
• If attending in person: Idea Store, Whitechapel (Lab 3), 321 Whitechapel Road, London, E1 1BU

Disclaimer

Due to the sensitive nature of the topic and the discussion of potentially triggering topics, we recommend individuals to only attend if they feel safe and well enough. Please note that we aim to have a member of our qualified support team present should you need any support during the workshop, however this is subject to availability.

Important things to note before the sessions:

• Please arrive at least 5 minutes prior to the time as we aim to have a prompt start.
• We highly encourage participants to attend and participate in as many discussions as possible in order to reap the full benefits of the workshop.
• Some interactions will be required via Slido (http://Slido.com) so please have a smart phone or device handy should you wish to participate.