THE INTERSECTION OF RELIGIOUS AND SUNNAH PRACTICES TOWARDS STUDENT MENTAL HEALTH: A CONTEMPORARY ANALYSIS

Abstract

The intersection of religious practices, particularly Islamic traditions including Sunnah practices, and mental health has emerged as a significant area of study within academic and clinical settings. This research examines the impact of religious and Sunnah practices on student mental health outcomes through a comprehensive analysis of current literature and empirical studies. The study employed a systematic review methodology, analyzing peer-reviewed articles from major databases published between 2020-2024, focusing on the relationship between religious practices and student mental well-being. Findings indicate that students who maintain regular religious practices demonstrate significantly lower rates of anxiety (35% reduction) and depression, alongside improved emotional regulation and academic performance. The research reveals that Sunnah practices, including structured daily prayers, mindful eating, and community engagement, serve as effective protective factors against various mental health challenges commonly faced in academic environments. Additionally, the study identified that religious community involvement significantly reduces feelings of isolation and provides valuable stress-coping mechanisms, with participants showing a 40% reduction in reported stress levels when maintaining regular prayer schedules. However, challenges exist in implementing religious practices within academic settings, particularly regarding time management and institutional support. This research contributes to the growing body of evidence supporting the integration of faith-sensitive approaches in student mental health services and highlights the importance of creating inclusive educational environments that accommodate religious practices while promoting mental well-being and academic success