Dua & Sunnah

Dua for Panic Attacks: Calming the Heart with Dhikr

Anxiety & Distress
Sahih HadithSahih al-Bukhari 5893

اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ الْهَمِّ وَالْحَزَنِ، وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ الْعَجْزِ وَالْكَسَلِ، وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ الْجُبْنِ وَالْبُخْلِ، وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ غَلَبَةِ الدَّيْنِ وَقَهْرِ الرِّجَالِ

O Allah, I seek refuge in You from distress and sorrow, and I seek refuge in You from helplessness and laziness, and I seek refuge in You from cowardice and stinginess, and I seek refuge in You from being overcome by debt and being dominated by men.

Allahumma inni a'udhu bika minal-hammi wal-hazani, wa a'udhu bika minal-'ajzi wal-kasali, wa a'udhu bika minal-jubni wal-bukhli, wa a'udhu bika min ghalabatid-dayni wa qahrir-rijali.

When to Read

This powerful supplication is a profound shield against overwhelming feelings. Recite it when you feel the onset of anxiety, dread, or the suffocating pressure of a panic attack. It’s a reminder that ultimate refuge is with Allah, and He is capable of easing all burdens and fears. Keep it close to your heart, reciting it as often as needed, especially during moments of heightened distress.

How to Read

This dua is a direct plea to Allah. Face the Qiblah if possible, raise your hands, and utter these words with sincerity and deep conviction. Focus on the meaning of each phrase, truly believing in Allah's power to protect you. Remember that sincerity of intention (ikhlas) is key. Even if you can't recall the full Arabic, saying it in your own language, expressing your need for Allah's refuge, is beneficial.

Virtues & Benefits

This specific dua, taught by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, addresses deep-seated worries and fears. By seeking refuge in Allah from 'distress and sorrow' (al-hammi wal-hazani), we are directly asking for relief from the mental anguish that often accompanies panic. The other aspects mentioned—helplessness, laziness, cowardice, stinginess, overwhelming debt, and domination by others—are common sources of anxiety. By reciting this, we are not just asking for immediate relief from panic symptoms, but for a broader spiritual fortification against the roots of our distress. It cultivates reliance on Allah (tawakkul) and strengthens the heart, making it less susceptible to overwhelming fear.

Source & Authentication

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ used to supplicate to Allah using the following words: Allahumma inni a'udhu bika minal-hammi wal-hazani, wa a'udhu bika minal-'ajzi wal-kasali, wa a'udhu bika minal-jubni wal-bukhli, wa a'udhu bika min ghalabatid-dayni wa qahrir-rijali. (Sahih al-Bukhari 5893). This supplication was a constant practice of the Prophet ﷺ, highlighting its importance in seeking protection from psychological and practical burdens.
Sahih HadithSahih al-Bukhari 5893
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