Director of Health Services for Vulnerable Groups at the ministry,\nImran Pambudi, said the 2026 Hajj will be one of the largest spiritual\ngatherings, involving more than 1.8 million pilgrims worldwide,\nincluding around 221,000 from Indonesia.<\/p>\n
Of that number, about 11,000 are elderly pilgrims who face greater\nphysical and mental challenges.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Hajj is a very important religious practice for Muslims.\nHowever, beyond its profound religious significance, it also presents\nsignificant mental health challenges,\u201d he said here on Wednesday.<\/p>\n
He noted that environmental changes, large crowds, and physical and\nemotional pressures could trigger stress, anxiety, and even mental\nhealth disorders.<\/p>\n
A Ministry of Health report indicates that around 10 to 15 percent of\npilgrims require special attention for mental health issues, while 30 to\n40 percent experience sleep disturbances due to disrupted circadian\nrhythms and intensive worship activities.<\/p>\n
Data from the Indonesian Hajj Health Center show that elderly\npilgrims are the most vulnerable group, with around 80 percent of\npatients treated for mental disorders exhibiting symptoms of\ndementia.<\/p>\n
Imran also highlighted that temperatures in Mecca currently range\nbetween 35 and 38 degrees Celsius with low humidity, conditions that can\nlead to dehydration, fatigue, and sleep problems.<\/p>\n
He added that stricter regulations imposed by the Saudi government\nregarding visas, access to Mecca, and the use of the Nusuk digital\napplication have increased psychological pressure, particularly for\npilgrims unfamiliar with technology and concerned about potential\npenalties for violations.<\/p>\n
The demanding rituals of tawaf and sa\u2019i can contribute to emotional\nexhaustion, while the return home phase requires readjustment after an\nintense spiritual experience.<\/p>\n
Other factors, including cultural differences, limited facilities,\nand interaction within large crowds, may also lead to frustration and\nfeelings of isolation.<\/p>\n
\u201cAll of this shows that mental preparation and managing expectations\nare just as important as physical preparation, so that pilgrims can\ncalmly navigate the dynamics of worship without being burdened by\nunrealistic expectations,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
To address these challenges, he emphasized the importance of a\nholistic approach.<\/p>\n
Pre-departure counseling that includes stress management training,\nbalanced worship schedules with adequate rest, and attention to\nhydration and nutrition are key strategies.<\/p>\n
Relaxation practices, prayer, and dhikr can help calm the mind, while\nsocial support from fellow pilgrims fosters a sense of community and\nreduces anxiety.<\/p>\n
\u201cHajj health workers are now equipped with specialized teams to\nrespond quickly to psychological issues and prevent them from developing\ninto more serious conditions,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
With proper mental preparation, realistic expectations, adherence to\nregulations, and strong support from families and communities, the 2026\nHajj pilgrimage is expected to be undertaken with greater calm, focus,\nand spiritual fulfillment.<\/p>\n
Related news: Indonesia sends off 391 pilgrims in first batch for\n2026 season<\/p>\n
Related news: Indonesia Hajj 2026: Officials depart starting April\n17<\/p>\n
Translator: Mecca Yumna Ning Prisie, Katriana<\/p>", "url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/government-urges-mental-readiness-for-2026-hajj-pilgrims-1776901846", "image": "" }, "sponsor": "Okusi Associates", "sponsor_url": "https:\/\/okusiassociates.com" }