During the holy month of Ramadan, many Muslims observe fasting from sunrise to sunset.
of Ramadan, many Muslims observe fasting from sunrise to sunset
However Ramadan is much more than fasting, it is a time for Muslims to focus and reflect on what is important to them and to refrain from bad habits and harmful behaviours, both to themselves and to others.
While observing Ramadan is encouraged for 'healthy' Muslims, we look at what this means for those with Mental, rather than physical illnesses, as well as the impact of the holy month on overall wellbeing.
The Stats
There are an estimated 2.1 billion Muslims in the world, making up a quarter of the world's population.
There are 2.7 million Muslims in England and Wales.
Ramadan is the holiest month of Islam and fasting is one of the key features, along with community, prayer and reflection.
Ramadan often involves changes to sleep patterns, changes to eating, drinking and medication, as well as social interaction and community enagement.
In 2025 Ramadan is expected to start on February 28th February or Saturday 1st March.
Benefits
The experience of Ramadan is personal to the individual. The self-care, time with loved ones and sense of purpose that Ramadan can bring, can have a positive impact on a person's mood and sense of wellbeing. Many report experiencing greater mindfulness, reduced stress and greater sense of community and support.
Ramadan requires individuals to follow a routine, which includes waking early before sunrise to eat, fasting, breaking fast (iftar) and praying five times a day. For some this can help to foster healthier habits, and a better sleep routine.
An individual's discipline and self control is tested during Ramadan, which may lead to a greater sense of confidence, resilience and accomplishment.
Fasting encourages individuals to have empathy and compassion for those less fortunate and who are experiencing hunger, lack of water and other comforts. This can lead to a desire to help others, and to also have gratitude and appreciation for their own situation.
Ramadan is a time for community and coming together, whether that be breaking fast with family, attending the mosque for prayer or engaging in other community activities. This sense of connection and social interaction can be beneficial to a person's mood and sense of wellbeing.
Stressors
For with pre-existing mental health problems or going through challenges, the dysregulated sleep, restrictive food intake and changes to medication can impact their mental health.
The dysruption to regular sleep patterns in those suffering from Bipolar, can trigger mania, hypomania or severe depression. Research also shows those with schizophrenia (along with metabolic syndrome) have a higher chance of relapsing during Ramadan.
While fasting during Ramadan does not appear to change attitudes to eating in the general population, it may affect eating behaviour in subjects vulnerable to eating disorders.
Those who are prescribed Psychiatric medication that must be ingested with food or water during fasting time, may alter the timings, which can impact the effectiveness.
Tips and advice
The Mental Health Foundation has identified tips for handling your Mental Health during Ramadan, including writing down feelings, getting involved in charity and prioritising your health.
Read more here:
Further resources:
