Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Ministry of Health has stressed that managing expectations and adopting a holistic approach are essential to help pilgrims perform the Hajj with greater peace of mind and focus.
Director of Health Services for Vulnerable Groups at the ministry, Imran Pambudi, said the 2026 Hajj will be one of the largest spiritual gatherings, involving more than 1.8 million pilgrims worldwide, including around 221,000 from Indonesia.
Of that number, about 11,000 are elderly pilgrims who face greater physical and mental challenges.
“The Hajj is a very important religious practice for Muslims. However, beyond its profound religious significance, it also presents significant mental health challenges,” he said here on Wednesday.
He noted that environmental changes, large crowds, and physical and emotional pressures could trigger stress, anxiety, and even mental health disorders.
A Ministry of Health report indicates that around 10 to 15 percent of pilgrims require special attention for mental health issues, while 30 to 40 percent experience sleep disturbances due to disrupted circadian rhythms and intensive worship activities.
Data from the Indonesian Hajj Health Center show that elderly pilgrims are the most vulnerable group, with around 80 percent of patients treated for mental disorders exhibiting symptoms of dementia.
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Imran also highlighted that temperatures in Mecca currently range between 35 and 38 degrees Celsius with low humidity, conditions that can lead to dehydration, fatigue, and sleep problems.
He added that stricter regulations imposed by the Saudi government regarding visas, access to Mecca, and the use of the Nusuk digital application have increased psychological pressure, particularly for pilgrims unfamiliar with technology and concerned about potential penalties for violations.
The demanding rituals of tawaf and sa’i can contribute to emotional exhaustion, while the return home phase requires readjustment after an intense spiritual experience.
Other factors, including cultural differences, limited facilities, and interaction within large crowds, may also lead to frustration and feelings of isolation.
“All of this shows that mental preparation and managing expectations are just as important as physical preparation, so that pilgrims can calmly navigate the dynamics of worship without being burdened by unrealistic expectations,” he said.
To address these challenges, he emphasized the importance of a holistic approach.
Pre-departure counseling that includes stress management training, balanced worship schedules with adequate rest, and attention to hydration and nutrition are key strategies.
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Relaxation practices, prayer, and dhikr can help calm the mind, while social support from fellow pilgrims fosters a sense of community and reduces anxiety.
“Hajj health workers are now equipped with specialized teams to respond quickly to psychological issues and prevent them from developing into more serious conditions,” he said.
With proper mental preparation, realistic expectations, adherence to regulations, and strong support from families and communities, the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage is expected to be undertaken with greater calm, focus, and spiritual fulfillment.