Ramadan 2025: How To Cope With Mental Health, Substance Abuse Challenges While Fasting

Muslims focus on strengthening their spiritual connection with Allah through prayer, fasting, and performing good deeds during the sacred month of Ramadan.

Our sleep patterns are often irregular due to late-night prayers and pre-dawn meals, and our bodies, minds, and spirits are pushed to their limits as we fast from sunrise to sunset, according to Teen Vogue.

Ramadan fasting has been shown to reduce stress and depression for some, but it can also lead to a decline in mental health for individuals with neurodivergent traits.

Children, the elderly, travelers, pregnant individuals, and those who are ill are exempt from fasting. Additionally, if someone is struggling with severe mental health issues, they have a valid reason not to fast. However, for those who continue fasting, there are ways to support their mental well-being.

If you take mental health medication during the day, you may have the option of extended-release tablets or adjusting your dosage times to accommodate fasting. However, it’s essential to consult a medical professional first.

Seeking treatment can already be challenging for many Muslims, and those struggling with substance use disorder often suffer in silence during Ramadan. Muslims facing this challenge should work with a multidisciplinary team, including a trusted religious leader, a doctor, and a therapist, to aid in their recovery.

Islam strongly supports mental health, although mental health struggles are often stigmatized in the Muslim community. Given this, seeking therapy is always the best option.