Ministry of Health: Proper Fasting Helps Address Mental Health Challenges in the Modern Era
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Ministry of Health has stated that fasting carried out properly builds harmony between body, mind and soul, meaning it offers extraordinary benefits for mental health and is increasingly relevant in addressing the challenges of modern life.
Director of Health Services for Vulnerable Groups at the Ministry of Health, Imran Pambudi, said in Jakarta on Wednesday that experts recommend several steps for optimal fasting to support mental health, such as setting spiritual goals, focusing on mindfulness, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and sharing experiences with the community.
Imran said Ramadan often serves as a moment for reflection and self-improvement, but can also influence trends in mental health disorders.
According to data from Surabaya State University (Unesa), the rate of mental disorders in Indonesia, such as anxiety and depression, remains high, with approximately one in 20 adolescents diagnosed with a mental disorder.
"However, during Ramadan, many individuals report a reduction in stress and anxiety symptoms thanks to fasting practices and spiritual activities," he said.
He added that a study conducted at MAN 2 Cilegon City in 2019 showed that fasting practices contributed 98.01 per cent to improvements in students' mental health. The research highlighted how self-control and increased spirituality during fasting helped students develop better emotional regulation, thereby increasing their sense of wellbeing.
"A study by Sirjan Azad University found that individuals who fast demonstrate stronger self-control, which has a positive impact on their mental health. Researchers found that self-control during fasting helps individuals remain calmer when facing life's pressures," he said.
Citing researcher Prof Dr Siti Nur Azizah, Imran explained that fasting can serve as effective soul therapy, as it regulates the hormone cortisol — which is linked to the body's stress response — and stimulates the production of endorphins, known as happiness hormones.
According to him, Ramadan is an ideal time to clear "mental clutter" and draw closer to God, which can bring peace of mind.
Research from the National Library of Medicine (2024) indicates that fasting helps reduce the production of stress hormones such as cortisol, making the body and mind more relaxed.
Furthermore, spiritual activities during fasting, such as prayer and dhikr, function as a form of mindfulness that helps individuals stay focused on the present moment. These practices have been shown to reduce anxiety and increase a sense of peace.
In addition, fasting has a significant impact on brain metabolism, contributing to improved cognitive function and mental health.
According to research published by Medcom.id, fasting increases the production of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), a protein that supports the growth and regeneration of brain cells and protects the brain from neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's.
Fasting triggers the process of autophagy, the body's natural mechanism for clearing damaged cells, including those in the brain. This process helps repair damaged brain tissue, thereby improving mental sharpness and mood.
Increased levels of happiness hormones such as serotonin and endorphins during fasting also contribute to a more positive mood. This is similar to the effect felt after exercising, where the body feels calmer and happier.
However, Imran cautioned that for some individuals, particularly those with severe mental disorders such as schizophrenia, Ramadan can pose challenges. Family and community support is essential to help them observe the holy month properly.
Director of Health Services for Vulnerable Groups at the Ministry of Health, Imran Pambudi, said in Jakarta on Wednesday that experts recommend several steps for optimal fasting to support mental health, such as setting spiritual goals, focusing on mindfulness, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and sharing experiences with the community.
Imran said Ramadan often serves as a moment for reflection and self-improvement, but can also influence trends in mental health disorders.
According to data from Surabaya State University (Unesa), the rate of mental disorders in Indonesia, such as anxiety and depression, remains high, with approximately one in 20 adolescents diagnosed with a mental disorder.
"However, during Ramadan, many individuals report a reduction in stress and anxiety symptoms thanks to fasting practices and spiritual activities," he said.
He added that a study conducted at MAN 2 Cilegon City in 2019 showed that fasting practices contributed 98.01 per cent to improvements in students' mental health. The research highlighted how self-control and increased spirituality during fasting helped students develop better emotional regulation, thereby increasing their sense of wellbeing.
"A study by Sirjan Azad University found that individuals who fast demonstrate stronger self-control, which has a positive impact on their mental health. Researchers found that self-control during fasting helps individuals remain calmer when facing life's pressures," he said.
Citing researcher Prof Dr Siti Nur Azizah, Imran explained that fasting can serve as effective soul therapy, as it regulates the hormone cortisol — which is linked to the body's stress response — and stimulates the production of endorphins, known as happiness hormones.
According to him, Ramadan is an ideal time to clear "mental clutter" and draw closer to God, which can bring peace of mind.
Research from the National Library of Medicine (2024) indicates that fasting helps reduce the production of stress hormones such as cortisol, making the body and mind more relaxed.
Furthermore, spiritual activities during fasting, such as prayer and dhikr, function as a form of mindfulness that helps individuals stay focused on the present moment. These practices have been shown to reduce anxiety and increase a sense of peace.
In addition, fasting has a significant impact on brain metabolism, contributing to improved cognitive function and mental health.
According to research published by Medcom.id, fasting increases the production of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), a protein that supports the growth and regeneration of brain cells and protects the brain from neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's.
Fasting triggers the process of autophagy, the body's natural mechanism for clearing damaged cells, including those in the brain. This process helps repair damaged brain tissue, thereby improving mental sharpness and mood.
Increased levels of happiness hormones such as serotonin and endorphins during fasting also contribute to a more positive mood. This is similar to the effect felt after exercising, where the body feels calmer and happier.
However, Imran cautioned that for some individuals, particularly those with severe mental disorders such as schizophrenia, Ramadan can pose challenges. Family and community support is essential to help them observe the holy month properly.