Religious Beliefs as a Practical Therapeutic Tool — Part 3 of 3
How can a therapist integrate religious beliefs into clinical sessions? In Part 3, Dr. Mehaidat presents practical tools: Quranic verses, prophetic hadith, stories of the prophets, supplication, and belief in divine decree — as genuine therapeutic strategies.
Psychology Theories and the Islamic Perspective — Part 2 of 3
Are Western psychological theories directly applicable in Arab societies? In Part 2, Dr. Mehaidat discusses the limitations of these theories, the importance of reclaiming the Islamic psychological tradition, and the role of language in therapy.
Religious Beliefs and Human Nature — Part 1 of 3
Human beings instinctively seek a source of strength and psychological stability. In Part 1 of this series, Dr. Mehaidat explores the relationship between human nature and faith, and how the Quran addresses the soul, mind, and self.
Words That Hurt: Medical Terms That Need Rethinking
From the word "patient" to "kidney failure" — the words we use in clinical settings carry real psychological weight. Dr. Mehaidat explores how language can be part of healing or part of the harm.
When a Family Member Falls Ill: The Psychological Weight Families Carry
When a family member is diagnosed with a chronic or serious illness, they do not carry the burden alone. This article explores the psychological impact on the whole family and how they can be supported.
Why Chronic Pain Is as Much a Psychological Experience as a Physical One
When most people experience pain, they think of it as a straightforward signal — the body's alarm system announcing that something is wrong. Burn your hand, feel pain. Break a bone, feel pain. But for the millions of people living with chronic pain, this simple model breaks down completely.
Understanding Depression: More Than Sadness
Depression is not a personality weakness or a passing sadness. It is a complex psychological and neurological condition that affects thinking, feeling, and behavior — and it is treatable.
The Loss of Life's Pleasures: Understanding Anhedonia and What Can Help
The loss of pleasure in life is one of the most misunderstood symptoms of depression. It is not laziness or ingratitude — it is a real neurological shift that can be treated.
Pain Catastrophizing: How Negative Thoughts Can Amplify Physical Pain
Of all the psychological factors that influence chronic pain, catastrophizing is among the most studied — and among the most powerful. It is also, fortunately, one of the most treatable.