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Prejudice affects both personal and social identity and must be challenged, say Abul Hussain and Rufus May.

It is important to raise awareness of some of the emotional and practical consequences of the disasters in New York. The collective grief for the loss of innocent lives has been deeply distressing. There is also much uncertainty about the consequences. Rather than quests for justice, there has been the unfortunate use of the term "war" by the US government.

The intense coverage of the disaster has been unsurpassed. Despite the lack of strong evidence, the media has been all too ready to point the finger of accusation towards a group of Muslims. Some press reports have been Islamaphobic in tone. This has added to the stereotypical view held by some that Muslims are either terrorists or have no tolerance for others. This prevailing notion fails to assist in bridging gaps and instead helps to perpetuate myths.

In the aftermath we continue to witness an increase in racist attacks on Muslims in the UK.

Given this, we as professionals in the mental health and social care field should consider how this increasing stigma can affect our perception of clients who have religious beliefs, and how our Muslim clients may be feeling. This is likely to affect the attitudes of non-Muslim clients towards Muslims.

Having talked to some Muslims in the local community, it is clear that they feel vulnerable given the way the media has been portraying them. Some are frightened to go out on their own or wear traditional clothing, fearing hostility from non-Muslims. Others have increased feelings of confusion and paranoia.

Mental health charity Mind has campaigned extensively on the negative effects of stigma and discrimination, arguing that it is a major contributor to mental health difficulties and isolation. Religious discrimination is no exception to that rule.

We realise the importance of the social context in affecting people's mental health. Alienation is a problem for all social and cultural groups in the inner city. Islamaphobic media coverage exacerbates the situation. Racism and prejudice affect one's personal and social identity. Unless challenged, this situation may make things worse for young people suffering psychological distress and confusion.

Everyone can combat the harmful effects of prejudice by being open-minded and accepting of differing views.

Abul Hussain is a social worker and Rufus May is a clinical psychologist in Tower Hamlets, east London.