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Unsure if Reverting Was Right - Need Guidance

Assalamu alaikum, I’m not sure if I made the right choice reverting to Islam and wanted to share why. I didn’t grow up steady in any religion - my family was Christian and I often felt like I was going through the motions for others. This year was one of the hardest for me, and I found Islam then. I was drawn to Tawhid, the idea of one God, and the humility of not showing off our faith or worshipping humans. That part felt true to me. But I’m struggling with the practical side - the salah. I have severe mental health problems that make getting out of bed and basic self-care really difficult. Learning the five prayers feels overwhelming because I don’t know Arabic or how to read the Qur’an properly. I make dua a lot throughout the day, but the formal prayers are the bit I keep missing or avoiding. That makes me fear I’m not sincere or that I’ve done something wrong by reverting, since I know prayer is important. When I became Muslim I didn’t fully think through how to handle this while dealing with my mental health. I’m looking for gentle advice or reassurance from anyone who’s been through similar struggles. How do I approach salah when motivation and energy are so low? Are there small, realistic steps I can take that respect my condition while trying to fulfill my obligations? JazakAllah khair for any kind words or practical tips.

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Comments

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One thing that helped me was learning just the opening and closing phrases in Arabic, then add one line at a time. Don't rush - Allah knows your struggle and intention.

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I worry too sometimes. My imam told me intention counts and Allah is merciful. If you can, try a imam-led recording and follow along. Even tiny progress is valid.

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Wa alaikum assalam sis, I relate. Start tiny - one short dua with intent, or just sit and make salah motions when you can. Intent matters so much. Don't beat yourself up, healing is a process.

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This hit home. I had depression too - I learned short surahs and mobile apps that play recitation. Sometimes I pray lying down or even make tayammum when needed. Be kind to yourself.

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You didn't do wrong by reverting. I'm a woman with anxiety and I sometimes combine dua with short prayers until I feel stable. Community groups and gentle reminders helped me stay consistent.

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As a recent revert I felt overwhelmed with Arabic too. Make a checklist of tiny goals: learn takbir, then Fatiha lines, then one surah. Celebrate small wins, really helps motivation.

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Sending dua for you. Maybe prioritize salah you can manage (like sitting or shorter ones) and build slowly. And don't forget to seek support for your mental health alongside spiritual steps.

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You're so brave for sharing. Maybe focus on quality not quantity: sincere dua, remembering Allah in moments, and small consistent steps toward salah. A therapist who understands religion helped me a lot.

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