South African Muslim Faith Healers perceptions of mental illness: understanding, aetiology and treatment.
Journal of religion and health March 1, 2008 Yaseen Ally, Sumaya Laher 77 citations
Muslim faith healers in Johannesburg distinguish between mental and spiritual illnesses, each with its own causes and treatments, according to interviews with six healers. Islam provides a clear taxonomy that separates these conditions, and healers advise treatments accordingly. The findings suggest that Western views of mental illness should recognize culturally specific taxonomies to better understand and assist clients.