Question:
Assalaamu ‘alaikum
Respected ‘Ulama
Unfortunately I have a friend that wants to commit suicide. How can I help her?
Jazakallaahu Khairan
Answer:
Bismihi Ta‘ala
Wa ‘alaikumus salaam wa rahmatullahi wa barkaatuh
Respected Sister in Islam
There can be many reasons for a person contemplating suicide. However, the underlying factor is the weakness of imaan. If imaan is strengthened, regardless of the condition, one will never become despondent and lose hope in Allah Ta‘ala. Therefore, the primary effort should be on strengthening the imaan.
Get her to do the following:
1. Daily to read the Stories of Sahaabah (radhiyallahu ‘anhum) from Fazaail-e-Aa’maal, for at least 10 minutes.
2. Recite istighfaar deeply from the heart 100 times morning and evening.
3. Every now and again, while busy with work, etc., keep reciting “La howla wa la quwwata illa billah.”
4. Totally avoid all media.
5. Remain in good company.
6. Daily sit for at least 3 minutes, morning and evening, and deeply make shukr for the various bounties of Allah Ta‘ala. Enumerate each aspect separately and each time say ALHAMDULILLAH from the depth of the heart. For example, “O Allah, you have given me eyes to see – ALHAMDULILLAH. I can talk – ALHAMDULILLAH”, etc. Sometimes, make shukr for all the bounties of Deen. On another occasion, enumerate the physical bounties, or material benefits, etc.
7. She should consult a learned and experienced person about the specific issue in her life and follow the advice given. Insha-Allah she will not remain in this state.
May Allah Ta‘ala remove these negative thoughts from her mind and bless her with happiness, aameen.
Answered by:
Uswatul Muslimah Panel of ‘Ulama