Dhikr for Anxiety: A Literature Review

Abstract

Anxiety is a natural response when individuals experience a situation considered threatening. However, high-intensity anxiety triggers psychological disorders and reduces the individual’s quality of life. Anxiety occurs to anyone regardless of age and background. Anxiety disorders are also the most common disorder after depression. There are various studies associated with handling anxiety, one of which is the spiritual relaxation method. Relaxation therapy of dhikr is a type of spiritual relaxation that is frequently employed. Dhikr means remembering. The objective of compiling this literature review is to examine the use of dhikr to overcome anxiety in several conditions. The method administered is to review the literature on anxiety and dhikr from 2016 to 2019. A total of 6 research articles were collected for review. The search displays that the subject’s age and internal condition, the relationship between therapist and subject, and also family support influence the success of the dhikr therapy performed.