as salamu alaykum,

 

Shokran for writing into our live session with your question. What you are experiencing may be quite common. Is very possible that you are experiencing anxiety or panic disorder. You describe that when something bad happens in your family, you feel pressure in your heart and it starts to feel like it is sinking. This feeling can happen when we get anxious, overstressed, or have an emotional worry. I cannot diagnose you but that is my feeling. As it has been happening since you were a child, it just may be your body’s way of expressing stress or anxiety.

 

I kindly suggest, however, that you go to your family doctor to rule out anything physical.  It is important to ensure that there’s nothing going on with your heart. I doubt that there is, however, we must always rule out physical health-related issues first. You may also wish to request a referral to a counselor. A counselor can correctly diagnose what is going on and provide treatment, which is usually very successful.  I would kindly suggest insha’Allah that you also learn some relaxation and de-stressing tips (1).  This will help you cope with future situations that may arise.  These can be as simple as deep breathing exercises or progressive muscle relaxation to a whole lifestyle change including diet (eating healthy), exercise, adjusting sleep patterns and so forth.

 

Dzhkir is also a good way to reduce stress and promote relaxation.  Personally, I find it helps me in times when I feel anxious as well as at other times in the day.  There are many blessings in the remembrance of Allah swt. Also, remember that in the Qu’an it states, “So he invoked his Lord, Indeed, I am overpowered, so help”. (Quran, 54:10) and “So seek refuge in Allah. Indeed, it is He who is the Hearing, the Seeing.”(Qur’an, 40:56).  When we call upon Allah, He does help us and our hearts find rest.  A very helpful duaa which the Prophet (PBUH) use to say after every prayer, and after saying ““astaghfirullah” three times is “O Allah, You are Al-Salaam and from You is all peace, blessed are You, O Possessor of Majesty and Honor.’‏ (Muslim) (2).

 

Insha’Allah these tips help you overcome these feelings.  Please do consider seeing your family physician to rule out any physical issue as well as a counselor.  We wish you the best.  You are in our prayers.