The Obligations of Children Toward Their Depressed Mother

Question:
And may Allah bless you. We conclude this session with a question from one of the brothers. He says: My mother has been afflicted with severe depression, and she is seventy years old. She is in her room, and her sons and daughters are around her, but she does not speak to them. They are distressed and want her to speak, but she does not. What is their obligation, and will they be rewarded for caring for her?

Answer:
It is obligatory for them to consult psychiatrists, as she may have a mental illness that needs treatment. They should also seek ruqyah (healing by Qur'anic recitation) for her from righteous people and scholars, in the hope that it will benefit her and cure her of this illness. Do not leave her without treatment, whether medical or religious. So, take the necessary measures. Also, do not cut off contact with her or stay away from her. Be around her, keep her company, and sit with her.