Supporting Student Wellbeing During Ramadan

Balancing Faith and Health Throughout the Holy Month

Ramadan is a significant period for many, marked by spiritual reflection, fasting, and community. For students observing Ramadan, managing religious commitments alongside academic responsibilities can present challenges to physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing. Guidance has been offered to help students maintain a healthy balance during this time.

Islamic Perspectives on Mental Health

Islamic teachings promote a holistic approach to wellbeing, intertwining spiritual practices with psychological health. Historically, the religion has emphasised mental health care, as seen in the establishment of one of the first psychiatric hospitals in 8th-century Baghdad under Caliph Harun al-Rashid.

Spiritual activities such as regular prayer (salah), supplication (du’a), and remembrance of Allah (dhikr) are viewed as sources of both spiritual nourishment and therapeutic relief. Many find comfort in the Quranic verse: “Verily, with hardship comes ease” (Quran 94:6), which offers reassurance during difficult times.

Setting Realistic Intentions

Ramadan encourages self-improvement and spiritual growth, with many setting personal goals such as additional prayers or increased Quran recitation. However, it is advised that these goals remain realistic to prevent burnout. Islamic teachings highlight that the sincerity of intentions holds value, even if efforts are modest.

Examples of manageable goals include committing to reading one page of the Quran daily or performing the obligatory prayers on time. The emphasis is on consistency and balance alongside academic commitments.

Practical Wellbeing Tips for Ramadan

• Prioritise Rest: Adjusting to altered sleep patterns can cause tiredness. Short naps and good sleep hygiene, such as reducing screen time before bed, may help. Taking breaks during the day, for example using lunch breaks to rest in quiet campus areas, can conserve energy.
• Mindful Eating: Consuming nutritious, slow-release foods during Suhoor (pre-fast meal) supports sustained energy. Foods like dates, rich in fibre, are recommended. Limiting fizzy drinks and processed foods can help avoid energy crashes and dehydration.
• Academic Planning: Planning study and revision times around personal energy levels, such as after Suhoor or Iftar, can aid productivity. Students are encouraged to seek support or adjustments from university services if needed to manage workloads.
• Reflection: Engaging in reflective practices like journaling can provide emotional relief. Sharing feelings with friends and family may also offer support and understanding.
• Community Engagement: Participating in campus or local community events, including Iftars or mosque visits, can foster a sense of connection and support during Ramadan.

Encouragement for Self-Compassion

Students are reminded to be kind to themselves throughout Ramadan. The period is seen as one of growth rather than perfection, with self-compassion being vital to maintaining both wellbeing and faith.