A 9th-Century Cure for Anxiety and Depression

Let's Talk Religion · Nov 4, 2026 · 44m

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is often seen as a modern invention—but its core ideas were explored over 1,100 years ago by the 9th-century scholar Abu Zayd al-Balkhi.

In this video, we explore al-Balkhi’s groundbreaking writings on mental health, anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, and the connection between thoughts and behavior—ideas that closely resemble modern psychology and CBT.

Music by:

Filip Holm (me)

Find me and my music here:

https://linktr.ee/filipholm

Support Let's Talk Religion on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/letstalkreligion

Or through a one-time donation…