Arabic-speaking religious leaders’ perceptions of the causes of mental illness and the use of medication for treatment

Abstract

The beliefs of Arabic-speaking religious leaders influence how they respond to people with mental illness and may determine whether they refer people to professional mental health services or not. Understanding their perspectives allows opportunities to share information to facilitate collaborative work in the care of Arabic-speaking people with mental illness. Arabic-speaking religious leaders need to be better educated about the mechanisms of action and benefits of medication in the treatment of mental illness.

An evaluation of a mental health literacy course for Arabic speaking religious and community leaders in Australia: effects on posttraumatic stress disorder related knowledge, attitudes and help-seeking

“…Another equally important support group working with refugees are religious and community leaders [17][18][19]. Importantly, research has demonstrated that clergy in Arabic speaking communities are highly revered and considered to be the first point of contact for people who are suffering from mental illnesses [18]. However, there is also evidence to suggest that such leaders may have poorer knowledge related to the recognition and management of mental illness despite their significant influence [18].…”

“…Importantly, research has demonstrated that clergy in Arabic speaking communities are highly revered and considered to be the first point of contact for people who are suffering from mental illnesses [18]. However, there is also evidence to suggest that such leaders may have poorer knowledge related to the recognition and management of mental illness despite their significant influence [18]. Thus improving their capacity to respond to refugees with mental health problems may play a role in promoting professional help-seeking where it is required.…”

“…A qualitative study conducted in Arabic speaking communities in Australia, highlighted religious leaders 'would be the person of choice' for advice and counselling in times of distress. Moreover, it was reported that the majority of participants (74%) perceived religious leaders to have spiritual healing powers [18]. Participants noted that approaching religious leaders to help explain and alleviate the confusing circumstances and symptoms arising from a mental illness was viewed to be less threatening than a psychiatrist [18].…”

“…Moreover, it was reported that the majority of participants (74%) perceived religious leaders to have spiritual healing powers [18]. Participants noted that approaching religious leaders to help explain and alleviate the confusing circumstances and symptoms arising from a mental illness was viewed to be less threatening than a psychiatrist [18]. However, and despite refugees' perceived benefits around the role of religious leaders, evidence suggests that such leaders can be poorly equipped to provide effective support to those with mental illness [19].…”

“…This program was developed to respond to the evidence that posited religious and community leaders to be gatekeepers in refugee communities, providing mental health support and potentially facilitating professional helpseeking processes [18]. Relatedly, research has also demonstrated limited mental health service uptake amongst such individuals even when presenting with severe levels of psychological distress [5,8].…”