Abstract
This narrative study sought to discover the experiences of Maguindanaon ethnolinguistic group regarding people with mental illness in the mainstream. There were nine (9) Muslim participants in this study selected using a purposive sampling, a non-probability sampling technique. The researcher provided a semi-structured interview questionnaire and thematic content analysis was used to analyze the results. Experiences of the community revealed four themes which are risk of aggression and violence, Unusual and off the wall actuations, wretchedness and abject despondency, and facts and myths on mental illness. Coping mechanisms revealed five themes which are strong faith in Allah, giving and seeking intervention and support, generosity of spirit, kindness and acceptance, and avoidance among this individual. Finally, participants’ insight revealed themes such as lack of spiritual foundation to and faith in Allah, major stress and trauma in life, lack of appropriate treatment and mental health professionals, lack of treatment facilities and all kinds of support. The need for mental health professionals, treatment facilities and psychoeducation in Muslim local community are strongly recommended to help community in dealing people suffering from mental illness.
