Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

3-minute read
15 November 2024 | 14:20 CAT

Image/ My Therapy Journals (Instagram)

In an age defined by rapid change and emotional complexities, the art of journaling emerges as a valuable therapeutic tool for young people navigating their inner worlds. In an interview with Radio Islam International, Shanaz Patel, a mindset coach and student of Islamic psychology, sheds light on how journaling can help teenagers better manage their emotions and thought patterns, particularly from an Islamic perspective.

“Journaling is more than just scribbling about a bad day,” Patel explains. “It’s a habit that enables introspection, helping individuals identify and understand recurring patterns in their thoughts and behaviours.” Unlike the casual keeping of a diary, therapeutic journaling encourages self-reflection and the pursuit of constructive change.

Drawing from Islamic principles, Patel describes how Islamic psychology integrates guidance from the deen into understanding human behaviour, differing from Western psychology’s scientific and research-based approach. The practice of therapeutic journaling, Patel says, resonates deeply with the concept of nasiha (advice) in Islam, which emphasizes self-awareness and improvement.

Contrary to stereotypes that link journaling predominantly with girls, Patel highlights its historical significance among influential men and underscores its value across all demographics. “It’s not about gender; it’s about growth,” she asserts.

A distinctive feature of journaling lies in the tactile act of writing, which Patel believes is inherently therapeutic. “Writing engages both the mind and body, making it a holistic process,” she says. However, she acknowledges that alternatives like voice notes or digital diaries can also be effective, catering to individual preferences in the digital era.

While journaling benefits all age groups, Patel focuses on teenagers due to their unique emotional challenges. Drawing from personal experience as a mother of teens, she emphasizes how journaling can foster emotional resilience in young people. “By understanding their emotions, they can address issues like prolonged tiredness or stress and work towards healthier routines,” she notes.

In a world that often overlooks the therapeutic value of such practices, Patel’s insights remind us that journaling offers a timeless path to self-discovery and emotional well-being for all.

You can listen to the full interview on Sabahul Muslim with Moulana Sulaimaan Ravat and Shanaz Patel, a mindset coach and student of Islamic psychology, here.