Islamic texts acknowledge the validity of negative emotions and offer guidelines on how to deal with them in a healthy way.
One of the first steps Islam takes in navigating such emotions is to reorient our perspective: The Qur’an reminds us not to allow ourselves to become or remain overly attached to this world and its distractions, and that the pursuit of virtue will lead to ultimate happiness in the Hereafter:
“Wealth and children are the adornments of the life of this world, but that which endures, [such as] righteous deeds, is better in reward with thy Lord, and better [as a source] of hope.”
(Qur’an 18:46)
It is normal to experience sadness and grief (even intensely), and, just as Allah gave us life, He gave us emotions. These emotions can in fact be beneficial and a means of drawing nearer to God if dealt with appropriately.
Muslim scholars have offered a number of practical approaches to addressing these emotions. One such strategy is the Duha Approach, where we can healthily and constructively navigate such feelings (see: Do the Quran and Sunnah offer guidance on how to deal with trauma and pain? below).
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