Amina has been thinking about wearing the hijab for years. She didn’t grow up in a practising Muslim household and never had role models to look up to. Deep inside, she feels drawn to express her faith by wearing the hijab. But every time she tries to take that step, hijab anxiety kicks in.
“What will my friends say?” she wonders. “Will my family think I’m being extreme? How will I explain this at work? Will people treat me differently or discriminate against me just because of this piece of cloth?” These worries create so much anxiety about wearing hijab in public that sometimes it feels easier to avoid wearing it altogether.
Like Amina, many Muslim women face the fear of standing out. A visible Muslim identity that can bring both pride and stress, because Islamophobia and hijab discrimination are still very real in many people’s experiences. Carrying your faith so visibly, knowing it can invite discrimination, wears down the nervous system. You might question: Is it wrong that I feel scared? No. This isn’t a failure of faith. It’s the result of an unsafe world.
Psychologically speaking, the brain sees any change as a threat. It tries to protect us by making us fear being judged. Starting to wear a hijab is a change, too. But here’s the truth: feeling anxious about this type of change is normal.
Sometimes, just sitting with the discomfort of hijab stress helps build strength over time. Many women start small. Maybe start by wearing hijab around trusted friends or family, then gradually wear it in public. Others try covering part of their hair before fully covering it. Everyone’s journey is different, and that’s okay.
Here are some gentle ways to cope with hijab anxiety and build confidence to embrace the change:
- Take it slow- Start by wearing hijab where you feel safest and slowly expand your comfort zone.
- Talk about your feelings- Naming your fears reduces their power. Reach out to someone you trust.
- Prepare for questions or stares- Remember, curious questions and comments are normal, just like when you change your hairstyle, whilst most strangers don’t pay much attention anyway.
- Nurture your nervous system- Deep breathing, walking, or even holding a warm drink can help calm your body after an anxious encounter.
- Find your support circle- Connect with other Muslim women who understand this journey. Seek spaces where hijab and healing can co-exist.
- Make dua for courage- Ask Allah to strengthen your heart and ease your path.
Wearing hijab is a powerful expression of faith, but it’s also a significant change in a world that can feel unwelcoming. You are allowed to hold both faith and fear. This struggle doesn’t diminish your sincerity. Whilst Hijab anxiety is real, so is your courage. Each small step you take proves your strength and shows that the fears in your mind don’t define your reality.
Take your time and remember: your faith and wellbeing both matter.
About the author
Tahira Hassan is an experienced counsellor based in South East Melbourne who supports women to gently untangle anxiety, grief and relationship struggles without letting go of their faith. She offers counselling via zoom and in-person. Tahira weaves Islamic values with practical mental health tools, creating a space where women feel heard, supported, and spiritually anchored. Her work is rooted in compassion, cultural understanding, and the belief that healing doesn’t mean letting go of who you are. She can be found at www.heartharmoycounselling.com.au or on our professionals list here: https://cmw.org.au/profile/tahirahassan/
