Acute Stress Most Frequent Health Issue for Hajj Pilgrims, Indonesian Clinic Reports

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Indonesian Hajj Health Clinic (KKHI) in Madinah has reported that acute stress and adjustment disorders are the most common diagnoses among patients in the first wave of this year's Hajj pilgrims. These conditions have been observed since their arrival in Madinah, Saudi Arabia, at the beginning of May. Other common illnesses among pilgrims include heart disorders, hypertension, and diabetes.

Kusufia Mirantri, a psychiatrist at KKHI Madinah, explained that physical stress, drastic environmental changes, fatigue, and temporary separation from family without companionship can trigger significant stress for pilgrims, particularly the elderly.

"Stress and adjustment disorders can manifest in various forms, including sleep disturbances, excessive anxiety, and psychosomatic symptoms," she said in a written statement on Tuesday, May 13, 2025.

The mental health specialist urged fellow pilgrims and companions to conduct early detection to prevent more serious impacts that could disrupt the pilgrimage. Kusufia explained that signs of a pilgrim experiencing mental problems can be observed through striking behavioral changes.

"Observe if a pilgrim who is usually cheerful and sociable suddenly becomes easily offended. Conversely, look for extreme withdrawal, a preference for solitude, and reluctance to interact with others," Kusufia said.

Specifically, she added that there are four signs of stress: difficulty sleeping or insomnia, excessive anxiety or fear, confusion about place, time, and people (disorientation), and rapid mood changes.

"A pilgrim might suddenly become easily angered over trivial matters. Conversely, they might suddenly become very sad and cry without a clear reason, even if they seemed normal moments before," she explained, giving examples of emotional fluctuations.

Kusufia suggested that pilgrims or their families who notice these symptoms should promptly report them to the accompanying pilgrim health care staff (TKHK). "They are best equipped to conduct initial assessments and provide appropriate interventions, including referral to KKHI if necessary," she said.

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