Celebrating Eid with our community
March 31 marked Eid al-Fitr, one of the most significant celebrations in the Islamic calendar, marking the end of Ramadan which is a month of fasting, prayer, and self-reflection.
Eid al-Fitr provides an opportunity for families and friends to gather, share meals, and exchange gifts. Last week, the spiritual and pastoral care team invited service users, colleagues, and visitors to join the late celebrations at Springfield Hospital.
This year, our Trust's Eid celebrations coincided with Muslim Heritage Month, a month-long festival created to challenge stereotypes, promote understanding, and foster empathy and inclusion for Muslim communities. Established by the Muslim Women’s Network, Muslim Heritage Month is celebrated annually in March.
Dr Iram Sattar, SWLSTG Associate Non-Executive Director and co-chair of the Muslim Women’s Network UK, discusses the significance of the month:
“The month was created to combat negative stereotypes through positive storytelling. Our aim is to highlight the rich diversity of Muslims in the UK, their contributions across various sectors, and the connection between Muslim and British cultures.
“It’s crucial for the next generation to take pride in their Muslim heritage, which is why positive representation matters. We must foster understanding and cultivate greater empathy and inclusion for Muslim communities.”
The history of mental health in Muslim countries
One of the first mental health hospitals was established in Baghdad, Iraq, in the 8th century. Located in the heart of the city, the hospital provided a clean space with food and support to help patients reintegrate into society upon leaving.
As early as the 9th century, the Muslim scholar Abu Zayd Al-Balkhi advocated for talking therapy and criticized medical doctors for overlooking the psychological aspects of disease.
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