When to See a Doctor or Counsellor Alongside Spiritual Guidance

Many people who contact us describe sleeplessness, fear, low mood or physical symptoms. Some wonder whether black magic, jinn or nazar is the cause. We never tell anyone that it is, and we always say the same thing: please see a professional as well.

Why this matters

Symptoms such as persistent anxiety, nightmares, a feeling of being watched or hearing sounds can have medical or psychological causes. Treatable conditions, including anxiety disorders, depression, thyroid problems, vitamin deficiencies, sleep disorders and the side effects of medication, are common. Left untreated they can get worse.

See a doctor soon if you have

• Fever, pain, weight loss or fatigue that does not go away.
• Poor sleep or nightmares for more than two weeks.
• Panic attacks, racing heart or breathlessness.
• Low mood, loss of interest or hopelessness.
• Hearing voices, seeing things others do not or strong fears you cannot shake.
• Any sudden change in behaviour in a family member.

Get help immediately if

• You or someone else is thinking of self-harm or suicide. In India call 112, or Tele-MANAS on 14416 for free support.
• A child or elderly person is seriously unwell.
• Someone is threatening or hurting you.

Faith and care together

Prayer, community and ritual help many people cope. They can be practised alongside treatment. A good spiritual teacher will encourage you to see a doctor, not discourage it.

How we approach this

Our consultations are belief-based conversations. We ask whether you have seen a doctor or counsellor, and we encourage you to do so when it is appropriate. We do not diagnose or treat any condition.

Sources and further reading

• Tele-MANAS: free 24x7 mental health helpline in India