The integration of technology into mental health care has introduced innovative ways to address mental health challenges through digital interventions. From mobile applications (apps) to telehealth platforms, these tools have the potential to enhance access to care, reduce stigma, and personalise treatments. However, as with any advancement, these innovations come with ethical considerations, especially in the context of preserving human dignity, privacy, and equity. Especially interesting in the Muslim communities, Islamic teachings offer valuable perspectives on how these interventions should be ethically and compassionately implemented.
Digital platforms break barriers to accessing mental health care by increasing accessibility to the service, making it easier for people in rural or underserved areas to seek help. This is particularly significant in the Islamic tradition, where caring for one’s mental health aligns with the concept of hifz al-nafs (protection of the self), a core objective of the Maqasid al-Shariah (the higher objectives of Islamic law). Ensuring access to mental health care fulfils the duty to preserve human life and well-being, as emphasised in the Qur’an:
“And whoever saves one [life]—it is as if he had saved all of mankind.” (Qur’an 5:32)
In addition, affordable mental health solutions through apps or online therapy platforms align with Islamic principles of social justice and inclusivity. Islam emphasises the equitable distribution of resources and the obligation to assist those in need, as reflected in the concept of zakat (tithes or charitable giving). Low-cost digital solutions enable a broader range of people to benefit from mental health care, fostering a more equitable system.
Stigma in mental health has always been a challenge in any society. It is prevalent across cultures, including in many Muslim communities. Digital tools offer a discreet means of seeking help, which can be especially valuable in contexts where discussing mental health issues openly may be seen as taboo. In Islam, seeking solutions to improve one’s mental and physical well-being is encouraged, reflecting the Prophet Muhammad’s (peace be upon him) saying: “There is no disease that Allah has created, except that He also has created its treatment.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)
Therefore, digital platforms are believed to be the avenues for individuals to seek treatment in a way that respects cultural sensitivities while upholding the Islamic value of seeking help for one’s struggles.
Furthermore, ethics is always a number one concern that involves mental health services. Therefore, confidentiality and privacy is a paramount concern in Islam, as it is in digital mental health interventions. The Qur’an emphasises the sanctity of privacy:
“Do not spy, nor backbite one another.” (Qur’an 49:12)
Data breaches and misuse of sensitive mental health data conflict with Islamic teachings on protecting individuals’ dignity and personal information. Developers must ensure that platforms are built with robust security measures that align with the Islamic ethical principle of amanah (trust). Islam also encourages the pursuit of knowledge and evidence-based practices. Digital tools that lack rigorous testing or clinical validation contradict the Islamic value of ensuring quality in any service provided to others. The Qur’an urges individuals to act with sincerity and excellence (ihsan):
“Indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to whom they are due and when you judge between people to judge with justice.” (Qur’an 4:58)
Ensuring the efficacy and quality of digital mental health tools is an ethical obligation that aligns with these teachings.
Digital divide is another concern as it poses ethical challenges for communities, especially those in low-income or conflict-affected regions. With regard to this, Islam emphasises the concept of adl (justice) and the need to address inequalities in society. Bridging the digital divide is not just a technical challenge, but also a moral imperative to ensure that no one is left behind in accessing mental health care. Autonomy and informed consent are equally important when providing mental health care and services. Islam upholds the importance of personal agency and accountability. Users of digital mental health tools must have clear and comprehensible information about how their data will be used and what services they are receiving, ensuring their autonomy and dignity are respected.
Nowadays, the rapid growth of technology in mental health care has introduced digital interventions that include mobile apps, telehealth platforms, wearable devices, and, increasingly, artificial intelligence (AI). These AI-driven solutions offer revolutionary approaches to mental health diagnosis, treatment, and support, promising improved accessibility, cost-effectiveness, and scalability. However, the future of mental health care lies in blending AI-driven innovations with human empathy and ethical guidance. AI can enhance accessibility, personalize care, and provide real-time support, it must operate within an ethical framework that respects users’ dignity, privacy, and spiritual needs.
Digital interventions in mental health represent a transformative opportunity to address the growing mental health crisis. AI-powered digital interventions in mental health represent a significant leap forward in addressing the global mental health crisis. However, their success depends on addressing ethical concerns such as bias, privacy, and the need for human empathy. For the Muslim communities, aligning AI innovations with Islamic values of justice, compassion, and dignity ensures that these tools provide meaningful and equitable care. As digital mental health continues to evolve, grounding these tools in Islamic teachings will ensure that they serve as a means of achieving both personal well-being and collective harmony. In addition to ethical considerations, integrating Islamic psychotherapy principles into digital tools can enhance their effectiveness. Indeed, incorporating Quranic verses, prophetic traditions, and Islamic mindfulness techniques into apps or platforms can resonate deeply with users, providing not only psychological support, but also spiritual healing.