Khaberni - Recent research suggests that fasting during Ramadan may be associated with significant improvements in mental health, with many fasters reporting a better mood and lower levels of anxiety, along with a greater general sense of satisfaction.
However, researchers are still discussing whether these benefits are due to fasting itself or to the social and spiritual atmosphere that accompanies this holy month.
According to Hespress, experts believe that these outcomes are due to a combination of factors, such as communal prayers, shared meals, increased spiritual practices, as well as a decrease in feelings of loneliness and changes in sleep and wake patterns.
Ali Shaabani, a retired professor of sociology and a social researcher, says that Ramadan also encourages an increase in worship, night prayers, charity, and social interaction, all of which enhance a sense of tranquility. He adds, "The spiritual dimension of Ramadan provides a sense of calm and internal peace."
This observation is supported by a scientific review that included 20 studies conducted in 14 countries involving more than 3000 participants. The results showed that 72.7% of the studies noticed a decrease in depression rates, 66.6% recorded a reduction in anxiety, while more than 85% noted lower stress levels, and 71.4% observed improvements in psychological wellbeing.
Researchers also noted a decrease in hospital admission rates during Ramadan, before rising again in the month that follows.
In his part, a researcher in health system policies, Al-Tayeb Hamdi, believes that fasting might have psychological benefits in itself. He explained that therapeutic fasting has proven effective in reducing anxiety and depression, and it can be used in some cases as part of treatment plans.
He adds that Ramadan also enhances psychological resilience, self-discipline, and emotional endurance, as many succeed in refraining from habits such as smoking during fasting hours.
