Experts Highlight the Subtle Signs of Burnout and When to Seek Help.
Ramadan in the UAE is a time of spiritual reflection, family bonding, and community connection. Yet behind the iftars, late-night prayers, and busy workdays, many residents quietly struggle with exhaustion that goes beyond physical fatigue.
Six days into Ramadan, the initial energy often begins to wane as the workweek takes its toll. Mental health experts told Gulf News that burnout during Ramadan is real—and recognizing the early warning signs can make all the difference.
When the Body Feels the Strain
According to Zobia Amin, Clinical Psychologist at RAK Hospital, the sudden change in routine during Ramadan can act as both a physiological and psychological stressor.
“During Ramadan, sudden changes in our daily routine affect both the body and mind,” said Zobia Amin, noting that fasting, altered sleep patterns, increased religious and social commitments, and ongoing work responsibilities can collectively strain physical and psychological resources.
Early Intervention Matters
“Early intervention by a mental health professional can prevent further psychological stress, as there is no health without mental health,” said Zobia Amin.
“Fasting can cause fluctuations in blood sugar and hydration levels, which affect energy and concentration,” she explained. “Altered sleep patterns due to late-night prayers and early morning meals (suhoor) reduce overall sleep quality and quantity, impairing cognitive functioning and emotional regulation. Managing work demands alongside social and religious commitments further increases mental load, often overwhelming coping mechanisms.”
Sleep, Sugar, and Stress
Dr Raga Sandhya Gandi, Specialist in Psychiatry at Zulekha Hospital, Dubai, added that fasting alone is rarely the sole cause of burnout, highlighting the cumulative effect of lifestyle and work pressures during Ramadan.
“The causes of burnout are multifactorial,” said Dr Raga Sandhya Gandi, noting that research shows blood sugar levels can influence mood, cognitive functioning, and stress.
“Alongside fasting, changes in daily routines, altered sleep schedules, and the availability of support for maintaining necessary dietary adjustments all significantly contribute to the experience of burnout.”
Why Your Brain Feels Foggy
Dr Raga Sandhya Gandi highlighted that dehydration, caffeine withdrawal, and sleep disruption each independently affect mood and performance.
“During Ramadan, these factors often occur together, leading to elevated stress hormones, reduced cognitive functioning, and emotional dysregulation,” she explained. “This can result in symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, restlessness, headaches, and decreased alertness.”
Dehydration, Caffeine Withdrawal, and Disturbed Sleep
“Dehydration, caffeine withdrawal, and disrupted sleep are well-established factors that impact mood and cognitive performance,” said Dr Raga Sandhya Gandi.
Fatigue Crossing into Burnout
Zobia Amin emphasized that early warning signs of burnout include persistent exhaustion that does not improve with rest, mood swings, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and sleep disturbances. Some individuals may also experience frequent headaches, muscle tension, or gastrointestinal issues.
“When such symptoms begin to interfere with daily activities—personal, social, or professional—during Ramadan, it indicates that fatigue may be progressing toward emotional or psychological burnout,” Zobia explained.
Who Is Most at Risk?
According to Dr Raga Sandhya Gandi, individuals with pre-existing physical or mental health conditions—such as diabetes, anxiety, or depression—are at higher risk of burnout during Ramadan. Employees in high-vigilance roles, those working long hours or rotating shifts, and people with limited social or emotional support may also be more vulnerable.
Self-Care Is Not Selfish
For those who feel spiritually committed but mentally drained, Zobia Amin strongly recommends prioritizing self-care. “Ensure adequate rest, maintain balanced nutrition within fasting constraints, and set realistic expectations for work and social obligations. Additionally, mental health practices such as mindfulness and relaxation techniques can help manage stress,” she advised.
Know When to Seek Help
If exhaustion persists despite these adjustments, or if symptoms such as overwhelming sadness, anxiety, persistent irritability, appetite changes, or difficulty functioning continue, professional help should be sought. “Early intervention by a mental health professional can provide tailored support and prevent further psychological stress, as there is no health without mental health,” Zobia added.
