A Muslim woman is been neglected by her husband, which has to lead her to use sleeping pills to treat the anxiety and insomnia she suffers. Due to her husband spending all his days on his computer, playing games, and talking to friends all day long.
However, if he would try to speak to her, the talk wouldn’t last two hours without any kind of interruption. From his phone or other things.
They had fought over this matter in the past two years, but this woman has to keep a silent mind to cure this serious mental illness.
So she turns to sleep pills.
Though this was not recommended by doctors, she had a history of sleeplessness and sleeping pills was what she has had used in the past.
And now it’s useful to cure her anxiety and insomnia, but she is worried if Islam allows this.
So she asked if there is a ruling on treating anxiety with sleeping pills or other relaxants from Islamic rule.
This is the answer to the question.
Praise to Allah.
It’s to point out that the wife has her right over her husband and the same goes for the husband right over his wife.
Both should treat themselves kindly, give necessary accommodation and maintain love and strong friendship. Meeting their needs physically, emotionally and financially.
All these rights are proven in the Quran and Sunnah.
For the Muslim woman, who suffers from anxiety and insomnia, she should look for activities that both of them can do together. Things like seeking knowledge, memorizing Quran or going on outings during their spare time.
To reduce the use of phones and to increase their communication which will boost the relationship positively and toward Allah.
To answer the question, ‘Is It Permissible To use Sleeping pills to treat anxiety and insomnia?’ she should note that this is not permissible.
It means it is not Islamic to use sleeping pills or relaxants, however, it may be allowed if it’s advice from a trustworthy doctor.
They know pills that contain narcotics, and some cause more harm than good.
So, treating herself with this kind of medicine is prohibited, but according to the point noted earlier.
As proof that will outline this better.
Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen (may Allah have mercy on him) was asked: What is the ruling on taking sleeping pills or what are called relaxants? Do they come under the heading of narcotics or not? Is that permissible in the case of necessity or if it is advised by a doctor?
He replied: It is not permissible to use these pills except in the case of necessity, on condition that they are recommended by a knowledgeable doctor, because they are dangerous and have an impact on the function of the brain. If someone uses them, they may bring about relaxation for a short time, but that will be followed by a greater evil. So it is important to note that it is permissible to use them when there is a need for that, on condition that that be done under the supervision of a doctor and on his advice.
End quote from Fataawa Noor ‘ala ad-Darb (tape no. 82, side A).
In conclusion, it’s not permissible to us sleeping pills, except for some situations.
As a quick reminder, sending blessings upon the Prophet (blessings and peace of Allah be upon him) is also one of the greatest means of attaining reassurance and peace of mind, and relief from worries and distress.
May Allah rectify her husband’s condition and take away your distress and sorrow.
And Allah knows best.
