URGENT UPDATE: The Australian Islamic Medical Association (AIMA) just launched a groundbreaking event focused on mental wellness in Canberra. On July 13, 2025, the AIMA, in collaboration with the Canberra Islamic Centre, hosted a pivotal community health education event titled ‘A faith-based approach to mental wellness’ that drew significant attention and participation.
This event combined elements of faith and science, addressing critical misconceptions about mental health within the community. Community members gathered to learn how Islamic teachings can enhance understanding and improve mental wellbeing, reflecting a pressing need for such discussions today.
Imam Adam Konda, the esteemed imam of the Canberra Islamic Centre, opened the session with powerful verses from the Quran, emphasizing healing and resilience. He quoted,
“Do not despair of the mercy of Allah” (Quran 39:53)
, underscoring the event’s faith-centered approach to mental health.
Zebunnissa Khan, a psychologist based in Canberra, tackled damaging myths that can hinder individuals from seeking help. She highlighted the misconception that strong faith equates to immunity from anxiety or depression. Through poignant examples from the Quran, she illustrated that emotional struggles have been a universal human experience, even for the Prophets. Her message resonated with attendees, emphasizing the necessity of seeking knowledge, treatment, and support.
Closing the event, Dr Omer Shareef, AIMA’s vice president and a neuropsychiatrist from Townsville, introduced the AIMA Mindsavers program. This innovative framework, designed specifically for Muslim communities in Australia, aims to provide a culturally safe and spiritually aligned approach to mental wellbeing. It features five pillars akin to the five pillars of Islam, offering practical, easy-to-follow strategies for improving mental health.
The program will be rolled out nationally in mosques and community centres, marking a significant step forward in mental health support for the community. Feedback from attendees indicated a strong demand for such initiatives, with participants traveling from as far as Sydney to take part in the discussions.
The successful turnout and engaging conversations sparked at this event signal a growing awareness and willingness to address mental health issues within the community. For those interested in the upcoming AIMA Mindsavers program, stay tuned to AIMA’s social media channels for more information on local launches.
This event underscores the urgent need for accessible mental health resources and highlights the importance of integrating faith and community support in addressing mental wellness. The AIMA’s efforts are a crucial part of a broader movement to destigmatize mental health discussions and encourage individuals to seek help when needed.
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