What is the legal ruling on abandoning prayer and dhikr when afflicted by a depressive episode resulting from bipolar disorder?
A Muslim is not permitted to abandon obligatory prayers as long as they are conscious, and they must be preserved. The greatest means of recovery from illness is to constantly remember Allah Almighty, maintain the obligatory and supererogatory prayers, recite the Quran, send blessings upon the Prophet (peace be upon him), and frequently supplicate with the prayers for worry and distress. Whoever strives against their own soul in this regard, Allah will assist them and remove their affliction. It is also advisable to consult trustworthy doctors.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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