Director of Well being Providers for Susceptible Teams on the ministry, Imran Pambudi, mentioned the 2026 Hajj can be one of many largest religious gatherings, involving greater than 1.8 million pilgrims worldwide, together with round 221,000 from Indonesia.
Of that quantity, about 11,000 are aged pilgrims who face better bodily and psychological challenges.
“The Hajj is a vital non secular apply for Muslims. Nevertheless, past its profound non secular significance, it additionally presents important psychological well being challenges,” he mentioned right here on Wednesday.
He famous that environmental modifications, massive crowds, and bodily and emotional pressures might set off stress, nervousness, and even psychological well being problems.
A Ministry of Well being report signifies that round 10 to fifteen p.c of pilgrims require particular consideration for psychological well being points, whereas 30 to 40 p.c expertise sleep disturbances resulting from disrupted circadian rhythms and intensive worship actions.
Knowledge from the Indonesian Hajj Well being Middle present that aged pilgrims are essentially the most susceptible group, with round 80 p.c of sufferers handled for psychological problems exhibiting signs of dementia.
Imran additionally highlighted that temperatures in Mecca at present vary between 35 and 38 levels Celsius with low humidity, circumstances that may result in dehydration, fatigue, and sleep issues.
He added that stricter rules imposed by the Saudi authorities concerning visas, entry to Mecca, and the usage of the Nusuk digital utility have elevated psychological stress, notably for pilgrims unfamiliar with expertise and anxious about potential penalties for violations.
The demanding rituals of tawaf and sa’i can contribute to emotional exhaustion, whereas the return dwelling part requires readjustment after an intense religious expertise.
Different elements, together with cultural variations, restricted amenities, and interplay inside massive crowds, can also result in frustration and emotions of isolation.
“All of this exhibits that psychological preparation and managing expectations are simply as vital as bodily preparation, in order that pilgrims can calmly navigate the dynamics of worship with out being burdened by unrealistic expectations,” he mentioned.
To handle these challenges, he emphasised the significance of a holistic strategy.
Pre-departure counseling that features stress administration coaching, balanced worship schedules with enough relaxation, and a focus to hydration and diet are key methods.
Rest practices, prayer, and dhikr will help calm the thoughts, whereas social assist from fellow pilgrims fosters a way of neighborhood and reduces nervousness.
“Hajj well being employees at the moment are geared up with specialised groups to reply shortly to psychological points and stop them from growing into extra critical circumstances,” he mentioned.
With correct psychological preparation, lifelike expectations, adherence to rules, and powerful assist from households and communities, the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage is anticipated to be undertaken with better calm, focus, and religious achievement.
Associated information: Indonesia sends off 391 pilgrims in first batch for 2026 season
Associated information: Indonesia Hajj 2026: Officers depart beginning April 17
Translator: Mecca Yumna Ning Prisie, Katriana
Editor: Primayanti
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