03/21/2023
Ramadan is set to begin tomorrow at sundown. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. During this month, Muslims fast from dawn to dusk.
However, this can be a difficult time for many individuals struggling with an eating disorder. According to the Quran, you do not have to fast if you are struggling with an illness. Unfortunately, culturally many refer to “illness” as physical diseases and disregard mental illnesses. These ideas lead to feelings of shame and guilt and cause many families to oppose skipping fasting for an eating disorder.
Fasting can also be triggering. A person with a past eating disorder may slip into disordered eating behaviors while fasting. Additionally, fasting may mask an eating disorder. Not eating is normal during Ramadan, and this can be used to hide harmful eating behaviors.
It's okay to feel left out when your entire family may be fasting. But, remember, Ramadan is about so much more than just fasting. Its about connection: you can join your family when they break their fast. Its also about remembering God: you can read Quran or pray additional prayers. You can also find something else to "fast" from, such as social media or music.
For eating disorder clincians: It's important to broach the topic of fasting during Ramadan to your Muslim clients with an understanding of what it is and its importance. Try to involve a local imam well versed in mental health if an individual or their parents are worried about foregoing fasting. You can even reach out to a Muslim eating disorder dietitian or therapist for advice.
For more information and Ramadan resources visit www.lonebenchinitiative.org/Ramadan-2023
