At Faculty of Agriculture, Tanta University, a seminar titled "Fasting and Mental Health" was held on Monday, March 17, 2025, under the leadership of Prof. Essawy Qassem Mahmoud, Faculty Dean, and the supervision of Prof. Adel Helal, Vice Dean for Community Service and Environmental Development, in collaboration with the Social Solidarity Unit at Tanta University, headed by Dr. Reham El-Sawah. The seminar was delivered by Prof. Islam Gado, Assistant Professor of Mental and Neurological Health at Faculty of Nursing, Tanta University.

   At the beginning of the event, Prof. Adel Helal welcomed the attendees and guest speakers, affirming the ongoing cooperation with the Social Solidarity Unit at Tanta University. Prof. Essawy Qassem, Faculty Dean, expressed his delight with the seminar and its significance, especially during the holy month of Ramadan, and extended his warm greetings to the attendees and guest speakers in celebration of Ramadan.

   In addition, Dr. Riham Al-Sawah conveyed her continuous enthusiasm for collaborating with Faculty of Agriculture on various activities.

During the seminar, Prof. Islam Gado highlighted the multiple psychological benefits of fasting, noting various studies that demonstrate its impact on mental health, including the following facts:

• Fasting enhances resilience and the ability to cope with life’s pressures, contributing to psychological stability.

• It helps individuals with mental health conditions avoid isolation when combined with social interactions during iftar and suhoor, fostering optimism and hope.

• Fasting alleviates symptoms of anxiety, anger, and insomnia as the body utilize its internal energy for essential biological processes.

• It has a noticeable effect in reducing symptoms of depression by balancing hormones and emotions of fasting individuals.

• Fasting plays a crucial role in treating individuals suffering from different forms of addiction.

• It promotes self-discipline and strengthens determination, enabling individuals to make positive life changes.

   The seminar was attended by a large number of academic staff members, teaching assistants, and students from all four academic levels. It was organized by the Student Union, "For Egypt" student group, and the volunteer team of the Social Solidarity Unit.

Interested individuals can register as volunteers for the Social Solidarity Unit’s team via the following link:

Volunteer Registration – Click here.

3/17/2025