Religious OCD in the Muslim Community

This is a 1-part workshop on Religious OCD in Muslim Communities, taking place for 4 hours virtually and in-person at the Yemeni Community Association Centre in Sandwell, UK.

About this event:

“Leave that which makes you doubt for that which does not make you doubt, for truth leads to reassurance and lies lead to uncertainty.” [Tirmidhi]

Religious OCD, also known as Scrupulosity, is a subtype of OCD. However, just as OCD in general is massively misunderstood in our communities, Religious OCD has even less recognition and understanding. The lines become blurred as Religious OCD is often misinterpreted for Waswasa (whispers of Shaytan) and thus may be perceived by some as nothing more than spiritual weakness and they may be provided with advice and rituals which could escalate their struggles.

Religious OCD is just the surface of many underlying issues such as trauma, fear, or a life changing event. It can be debilitating to those experiencing it and without the right understanding and support, it could lead to distressing day-to-day living.

It is our social and collective responsibility to ensure we both speak and act with knowledge, advocate for those struggling with Religious OCD and support ourselves and others when needed. 

By attending this workshop, you will be contributing towards the mission of improving the safety, mental health and wellbeing of the Ummah, In Shaa Allah! You will also receive a certificate of attendance.

Date and Time:

• Saturday, 13th May, 11am-2.30pm
• Hybrid workshop: Virtually via Zoom, in-person at the Yemeni Community Association, Sandwell, Greets Green Access Centre, Tildasley St, West Bromwich B70 9SJ

By attending this workshop, you will learn:

1. The nature of Religious OCD including the obsessive compulsive nature behind intrusive thoughts, and common myths and misunderstandings. 
2. The different types of Waswasaa, and the distinct differences to Religious OCD. 
3. To identify how Religious OCD can often be misunderstood or justified as piety. 
4. How to reduce the stigma associated to experiencing Religious OCD and breaking the cycle of compulsive behaviours and thoughts. 
5. How to cope with unwanted thoughts, different types of support available, how to help yourself and others around you. 

This workshop will be highly interactive, with many discussions, and case studies to work through as a group.

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 webinars, however this is subject to their availability.

Important things to note before the sessions:

• Please arrive at least 5 minutes prior as we aim to have a prompt start.
• The workshop places are non-refundable, so please check that you can attend in advance of booking (virtual attendees will be sent a zoom link prior to the event).
• We highly encourage participants to attend and participate in as many discussions as possible in order to reap the full benefits of the workshop.
• If you cannot afford a place on the workshop but would like to attend, please email outreach@inspiritedminds.org.uk so that we can offer a concession rate. Please be assured that this will remain anonymous to the workshop facilitator and will be handled with privacy.
• Some interactions will be required via Slido.com (so please have a smart phone or device handy) should you wish to participate.
• The training may be recorded for internal training purposes only and will not be made available to attendees.
• We require the feedback form to be completed by all participants in order to receive the slides and your respective certificate of attendance.
• For any further questions or information, please email outreach@inspiritedminds.org.uk.