Life is full of hardships that test the mindset and emotions of every believer. In today’s modern world, the pressure to keep up with expectations can feel overwhelming. With over 8 million people affected in the UK and 264 million individuals struggling globally, anxiety and stress have become widespread conditions.
The fast pace of life, the influence of social media, and fears about the future only add to the burden. Islam, however, provides a way to alleviate these struggles. The Prophet ﷺ emphasized turning to du’as and seeking solace in Allah. As stated in the Qur’an, “Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear” (Surah Baqarah 2:286). This profound truth reminds us that while difficulties are inevitable, faith offers a path to healing.
The Prophet ﷺ also narrated powerful supplications to relieve anxious hearts. One well-known narration from Jami’ al-Tirmidhi (2389) explains that those who focus on the eternal abode and not just their worldly affairs will find peace and contentment.
It is natural to feel distressing emotions, and even the most pious individuals experience moments of despair. However, the wisdom of the Islamic tradition offers a way to cope. Seeking support from the community, turning to Islamic Relief for guidance, and remembering that these are all tests from Allah can bring immense comfort.
Whether diagnosed with a generalised disorder or simply struggling with daily concerns, turning to faith can provide a balanced perspective. As we recite these du’as with sincerity, we must encourage ourselves to trust in Allah’s decree, knowing that every challenge has a purpose and will ultimately lead to ease.
Dua For Anxiety
One of the most powerful supplications for anxiety and sorrow is the one taught by the Prophet ﷺ to his companions. This prayer offers deep solace in times of turbulent moments when economic instability, public health crises, and misfortune weigh heavily on the heart.
A believer who recites it sincerely finds hope and relief from the burden of debts, weakness, laziness, and cowardice. As narrated in Sahih Al-Bukhari, these words were a source of strength for Abu Umamah, a companion who was struggling with worries and hardship. The Prophet ﷺ, in his wise and merciful guidance, told him to say these words every morning and evening to ease his troubles.
اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ الْهَمِّ وَ الْحَزَنِ، وَالْعَجْزِ وَ الْكَسَلِ وَالْبُخْلِ وَ الْجُبْنِ، وَضَلَعِ الدَّيْنِ وَغَلَبَةِ الرِّجَالِ
Transliteration: Allahumma innee a’uzubika min alhammi wal huzni wal ajzi wal kasli wal bukhli wal jubni wa dala’id dayni wa galabatir rijaal.
This supplication, also found in Sahih Muslim, reminds us that seeking refuge in Allahumma, the Merciful Protector, is the best way to find peace in times of panic, grief, and stress. The translation of this hadith teaches us to ask Allah to protect us from incapacity, stinginess, and the fear of being overpowered by men.
It is a poignant reminder that no calamity or misery is beyond relief when we turn to faith. This recitation not only brings comfort but also helps to strengthen the believer’s trust in the divine decree.
You might also like: Dua For Pregnancy
A Powerful Du’a for Stress
Life can be tough, and moments of distress often make us feel alone. In such difficult times, turning to Allah with du’a brings help and relief. One of the most powerful supplications in the Qur’an reminds Muslims that Allah is always in control of all affairs. This du’a from Surah Ale-Imran (3:173) and Surah Al-Anfal (8:61) is a perfect way to seek guidance and peace.
حَسْبُنَا ٱللَّهُ وَنِعْمَ ٱلْوَكِيلُ
Transliteration: Hasbunallahu wa ni’mal wakeel.
Translation: Allah is sufficient for us, and He is the best disposer of affairs.
Recite this Arabic du’a with full trust in Allah, knowing that He is the best trustee and will ease your burden.
Dua for Uplifting of the Heart
Life often presents challenges that weigh heavily on the heart, making it difficult to find calm and clarity. In moments of depression, turning to Allah for guidance brings peace. A powerful dua from Surah Taha (20:25-28) captures this need beautifully:
رَبِّ اشْرَحْ لِي صَدْرِي وَيَسِّرْ لِي أَمْرِي وَاحْلُلْ عُقْدَةً مِّن لِّسَانِي يَفْقَهُوا قَوْلِي
This Arabic supplication asks Allah to lift burdens, remove obstacles, and grant ease in all affairs. The transliteration of this dua is: Rabbi-shrah li sodri, wa yassir li amri, wahlul uqdatan min lisani yafqohu qawli. In translation, it means:
“Lord, expand my chest and make my task easy for me. Remove the impediment from my tongue so that they may understand my speech.” When recited with sincerity, it brings hope, strengthens faith, and reminds us that Allah’s forgiveness is always within reach.
Du’a for Depression
اللهم اخرجني من الظلمات إلى النور
Transliteration: Allahumma Akhrijnee min adhulumaati ilaa annur.
Translation: Oh Allah, take me out of darkness and into the light.
When depression weighs heavily on the heart, this du’a offers a way to dispel the gloom and find relief. It is a practiced supplication that reminds us that Allah’s mercy is always near. By sincerely reciting these words, we seek His guidance to bring us into hope and clarity, away from the burdens of darkness. With trust in His wisdom, we believe He will take us out of sorrow and lead us toward light.
Du’a for Worry
When life feels overwhelming and stressful, we can turn to the words of the Prophet (PBUH) for relief. Anas bin Malik narrated that whenever the Prophet faced a difficult trial, he would recite the following du’a:
لَا حَوْلَ وَلَا قُوَّةَ إِلَّا بِالله
Transliteration: La hawla wa la quwwata illa billah.
Translation: There is no power or strength except with Allah.
This powerful Hadith from Ibn Majah reminds us that true strength comes from placing our trust in Allah. No matter how heavy the task or hardship, these words bring comfort and guidance.
Dua to increase knowledge
Life is full of stressful experiences, and at times, we may not understand why certain things are occurring. However, we must trust that Allah knows best and has reasons behind everything. In such moments, turning to dua is the best way to seek clarity and strength. One of the most profound prayers for gaining wisdom is found in Surah Taha (20:114):
رَبِّ زِدْنِي عِلْمًا
Transliteration: Rabbi zidni ilma
Translation: “My Lord, increase me in knowledge.”
This dua reminds us that He is the ultimate source of wisdom and guidance. He loves us and will always help when life feels heavy or anxiety-inducing. We should always ask Him to increase our understanding, as these insights may include wisdom we do not yet comprehend.
Another great lesson from this verse is that the pursuit of knowledge is a lifelong journey, and we must continuously seek learning when facing life’s challenges.
You might also like: Dua for Depression
Dua of Prophet Yunus a.s.
When Prophet Yunus a.s. was stranded in the belly of the whale, lost in isolation and surrounded by darkness, he turned to Allah in complete reliance. In that moment, he recited a powerful invocation seeking mercy and deliverance:
لَا إِلَهَ إِلَّا أَنتَ سُبْحَانَكَ إِنِّي كُنتُ مِنَ الظَّالِمِينَ
La ilaha illa anta subhanaka inni kuntu minaz zalimin
This heartfelt plea, found in Surah Al Anbiya (21:87), is a reminder for anyone facing impossible situations. Even when there seems to be no way out, placing hope in the exalted God brings relief. No matter how deep the darkness, a single glimpse of faith can guide one toward light and forgiveness for the wrongdoers.
Qamar Ul Haq is an Islamic historian and writer with a passion for uncovering the rich heritage of Muslim civilizations. Through in-depth research and storytelling, He brings to life the achievements, struggles, and contributions of the Ummah throughout history.