Ramadan is a special time in the UAE and across the Muslim world. But it can also be challenging, especially for professionals who are fasting while balancing work, family, and spiritual commitments. That’s why the UAE Mental Health Council has launched a helpful new toolkit this Ramadan – and it’s all about making the holy month easier on your mind and body.
The Ramadan Coping Toolkit is designed to help people manage their energy, emotions, and time during this sacred month. It’s full of tips on how to deal with daily stress, manage sleep better, eat wisely, and still stay productive at work. The goal is to help everyone feel more balanced and in control – whether you’re fasting or supporting others who are.
Why This Toolkit Matters
Fasting during Ramadan is a spiritual journey. But it also changes your daily routine – especially when it comes to eating, sleeping, and working hours. This can affect both physical and mental health.
The UAE Mental Health Council says it understands the extra pressure people may feel during this month. Long work hours, lack of sleep, and limited food intake during daylight hours can affect mood, energy levels, and focus. That’s why this toolkit is being praised as a thoughtful and timely move to support wellness during the holy month.
Dr. Hamad Al Ghaferi, Chairman of the Council, said the guide encourages people to prioritise their mental health, reminding them that taking care of the mind is just as important as taking care of the body and spirit.
What’s Inside the Toolkit?
The toolkit breaks down useful advice into practical areas. Here are some of the most helpful tips from the guide:
1. Time Management Tips
Ramadan can feel like a busy time, with prayers, meals, work, and family gatherings filling up your calendar. The toolkit encourages people to plan their day with intention and focus on what’s most important.
- Prioritise tasks early in the day when energy is highest.
- Take short breaks to avoid burnout.
- Don’t overcommit – it’s okay to say no.
- Set realistic goals for work and personal time.
Being mindful about how you spend your time can help reduce stress and create more space for rest and reflection.
2. Sleep Management Tips
Sleep schedules often shift during Ramadan, with many people staying up late for Suhoor and waking early for Fajr prayers. This can cause fatigue if not managed well.
The toolkit suggests:
- Taking short naps during the day (if possible).
- Creating a relaxing bedtime routine.
- Avoiding screens before bed to improve sleep quality.
- Keeping your sleeping environment dark and quiet.
Even with shorter sleep windows, these small changes can help improve rest and boost energy levels during the day.
3. Nutrition Advice for Fasting
Eating habits also change during Ramadan, and what you eat (and when) can have a big impact on your mood and health.
The UAE Mental Health Council encourages:
- Starting Suhoor with foods high in fibre and protein.
- Avoiding too much caffeine and sugar.
- Drinking plenty of water between Iftar and Suhoor.
- Choosing slow-digesting foods to stay full longer.
Proper nutrition helps balance blood sugar, prevents headaches, and supports a better mood throughout the day.
4. Emotional Well-being
Ramadan is a time of reflection and compassion, but emotional ups and downs are normal – especially when you’re fasting.
The toolkit reminds people to:
- Practise gratitude daily.
- Stay connected with supportive friends and family.
- Make time for spiritual activities like prayer and reading the Quran.
- Use deep breathing or light stretching to calm the mind.
The toolkit also encourages people to be gentle with themselves and to seek help if feelings of sadness, anxiety, or stress become too strong.
A Holistic Approach
What makes this toolkit unique is that it combines mental health awareness with cultural and religious sensitivity. It’s not just about handling work stress – it’s about supporting the whole person during an important time.
It also focuses on community – reminding employers, coworkers, and families that understanding and kindness go a long way. The Council has also shared reminders for workplaces to show flexibility and support during Ramadan, especially for fasting employees.
Companies are encouraged to allow flexible working hours, reduce high-pressure meetings during fasting hours, and promote a culture of empathy during the month.
Mental Health in the UAE: A Growing Priority
In recent years, the UAE has made mental health a key part of its national agenda. The government is working to break the stigma around talking about mental well-being and has launched several campaigns to promote awareness and access to care.
The Ramadan Coping Toolkit is another example of this commitment. It sends a clear message that mental health matters – not just during difficult times, but every day.
This move is in line with the UAE’s goal of becoming a regional leader in wellness and happiness. With more people talking openly about mental health, especially during meaningful periods like Ramadan, the hope is that more people will feel comfortable asking for help when they need it.
Final Thoughts
Ramadan is a special time of peace, prayer, and personal growth. But it’s okay to admit that it also brings challenges. With the UAE Mental Health Council’s Ramadan Coping Toolkit, people across the country now have more tools to handle those challenges with grace and strength.
Whether you’re a professional working long hours, a student balancing studies, or simply trying to stay grounded through the holy month, this toolkit offers helpful advice you can actually use.
This Ramadan, remember that looking after your mental health is not a luxury – it’s a necessity. And with support like this, it’s a lot easier to do just that.
Also read: Sheikh Mohammed Attends Ramadan Music Gala at Dubai Opera
