‘Every disease has a cure, but therapists tell you to pray instead of treating it,’ says Aina Asif

Rising star Aina Asif has highlighted a key issue about mental health, pointing out that while most illnesses are treated medically, people suffering from depression or psychological problems are often advised to pray rather than being offered professional help.

She appeared on Nida Yasir’s morning show alongside her co-stars Samar Jafri and Abul Hassan, where the young actors openly discussed mental health struggles among the younger generation.

“It’s true that the new generation seems to have more mental health problems, but the reason is that we understand everything very deeply,” Aina shared.

She said, "Just like we get anxious during exams, young people today face many different stresses because we’re aware of the problems and their seriousness."

All three actors highlighted the importance of professional help for mental health.

Aina said, "Just like we treat physical diseases, mental health issues should also be treated."

She emphasised on the importance of therapy and encouraged families to seek professional help: "Therapy is helpful. Every young person and their parents should go to a therapist."

However, she also shared a concerning reality: "Unfortunately, even therapists sometimes tell patients to just pray instead of providing proper treatment."

Aina, however, clarified that she values prayer deeply: "Prayer gives peace. Every Muslim should pray. It’s a very good practice." But she encouraged seeking treatment alongside spiritual practices.

Young actor Abul Hassan echoed her views. "Just like we take medicine for a fever, mental health also requires proper treatment," he said.

He added, "Islam encourages us to use the intelligence we’ve been blessed with. That means we should treat mental illness just like any other disease."

Samar Jafri also believes that an increase in awareness is the reason why today’s youth seem more affected. "We’re more informed, and that awareness sometimes brings more anxiety," he said.

Social media users praised the young actors for their mature and honest views. Many agreed that while prayer brings peace, it cannot replace medical treatment, and mental illness should be treated just like any other health issue.