Mental Health
Nazma Shabbir (Dar es Salaam, Tanzania), a Clinical Psychologist and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Therapist with over 8 years of experience in the mental health field, is the the founder of GetHelpGetHappy Mental Health Counselling Services, where she provides compassionate and evidence-based psychological support. In her practice, she works with individuals experiencing anxiety, trauma, relationship difficulties, and the effects of narcissistic abuse, including CPTSD. Her approach is client-centered and trauma-informed, helping people understand their emotional patterns, rebuild self-worth, and develop healthier coping strategies. Nazma believes that with the right support and guidance, individuals can move toward healing, resilience, and emotional wellbeing.
Mental health and resilience are closely connected aspects of our overall well-being. Mental health refers to our emotional, psychological, and social well-being, influencing how we think, feel, and act. Resilience, on the other hand, is the ability to adapt, recover, and grow when faced with adversity, stress, or life’s inevitable challenges. Together, they form the foundation that enables individuals to navigate difficulties while maintaining hope and purpose.
Life is not always easy. Each of us, at some point, faces challenges that test our emotional and mental strength. Whether it is the loss of a loved one, family difficulties, financial stress, illness, anxiety, loneliness, or the pressure of everyday responsibilities, struggles are an inevitable part of being human. During such times, we often search for sources of strength that can help us cope, heal, and move forward. For many believers, the legacy of Karbala offers a powerful example of resilience, hope, and perseverance.
When we think of resilience, the story of Imam Husayn (AS) naturally comes to mind. Faced with unimaginable hardships, he remained steadfast in his values, faith, and commitment to justice. His courage teaches us that resilience is not about being free from pain or hardship. Rather, it is about holding on to our principles and sense of purpose even when life becomes difficult. In our own lives, resilience means finding the strength to get up each day despite emotional struggles, disappointments, or setbacks.
Yet the lessons of Karbala do not end with Imam Husayn (AS). One of the greatest examples of resilience in human history is found in the life of Bibi Zainab (SA). After witnessing the tragic events of Karbala and losing her beloved brother, family members, and companions, she faced grief beyond what most people can imagine. Yet she did not allow her pain to silence her. Instead, she transformed her suffering into strength and became the voice that preserved the message of Karbala.
For anyone struggling with mental or emotional challenges, Bibi Zainab’s (SA) example carries a profound message. Resilience does not mean never feeling sad, overwhelmed, or heartbroken. It does not mean suppressing emotions or pretending everything is fine. Bibi Zainab (SA) experienced immense grief, yet she continued to fulfill her responsibilities and speak the truth with remarkable courage. Her life reminds us that it is possible to carry pain while continuing to move forward.
In today’s world, many people feel pressure to appear strong at all times. Social media often creates the illusion that everyone else is coping perfectly while we alone struggle. This can lead to feelings of isolation and self-criticism. The story of Karbala reminds us that suffering is part of the human experience. Even the most noble individuals faced trials, loss, and hardship. Experiencing emotional pain is not a sign of weakness; it is a sign of our humanity.
The Husayni spirit also teaches the importance of meaning and purpose during difficult times. Research in mental health shows that people are often more resilient when they can find meaning in their experiences. Imam Husayn (AS) and Bibi Zainab (SA) remained focused on a higher purpose despite overwhelming adversity. Their example encourages us to look beyond our immediate struggles and remember the values, relationships, and goals that give our lives meaning.
Another important lesson is the value of support and connection. We often admire the strength of the heroes of Karbala, but their story is also one of community, loyalty, and mutual care. Likewise, resilience is rarely built in isolation. Talking to trusted family members, friends, mentors, religious leaders, or mental health professionals can make a significant difference. Seeking help is not a sign of failure; it is an act of courage and self-respect.
Mental health challenges can sometimes make us feel hopeless, as though our circumstances will never improve. During such moments, the resilience of Bibi Zainab (SA) offers inspiration. Despite witnessing immense tragedy, she refused to surrender to despair. She showed that even when we cannot change what has happened to us, we can choose how we respond. We can choose dignity over defeat, hope over hopelessness, and perseverance over surrender.
The enduring message of Karbala is that strength is not measured by the absence of suffering but by the ability to rise above it. Imam Husayn (AS) demonstrated unwavering faith and courage, while Bibi Zainab (SA) embodied resilience, leadership, and emotional strength in the face of unimaginable loss. Together, they teach us that hardship does not have to break us. It can become a source of growth, wisdom, and inner strength.
As we navigate the challenges of modern life, the Husayni spirit continues to offer guidance and comfort. It reminds us that resilience is not about being fearless or unaffected by pain. It is about continuing the journey despite fear, grief, and uncertainty. By drawing inspiration from Imam Husayn (AS) and Bibi Zainab (SA), we can find the strength to face our own struggles with patience, hope, and faith, knowing that even in our darkest moments, resilience can light the way forward.
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