Can a servant who has repented of sins committed in secret, such as watching pornography and masturbating, rid himself of the obsessive whisperings (waswas) of committing a sin against the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, and is it advisable to take psychiatric medications to get rid of these obsessive whisperings?
Sins and acts of disobedience are a cause of tribulation in religious matters and worldly affairs. A person's affairs becoming difficult and the doors of good being closed to him may be due to his sins. Furthermore, evil deeds can lead to a succession of them until the heart of the servant is sealed. What the questioner is suffering from, such as obsessive thoughts and anxiety, may be due to watching pornographic films, masturbation, and other forbidden acts. The solution is repentance to Allah, patience in the face of tribulation, and seeking help through prayer and the remembrance of Allah. The treatment for obsessive thoughts is to turn away from them and not to indulge in them, and a doctor can be consulted. Good companionship is also recommended. It is imperative to ensure that married life is built upon the piety and obedience of Allah, and to avoid forbidden marital frivolity.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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