Experiencing a Sense of Emptiness and Longing for the Holy Land After Returning from Hajj? IPB University Psychologist Explains the Phenomenon of Post Hajj Syndrome

Returning from the Holy Land, but your heart feels empty? Or is it hit by longing for the solemn atmosphere around the Kaaba, until a prolonged sense of anxiety and sadness appears? Apparently, this feeling is often experienced by Hajj and Umrah pilgrims. Are you one of them?

Nur Islamiah, M.Psi, PhD, a lecturer and psychologist from IPB University, revealed the phenomenon of Post-Hajj Syndrome or Post-Umrah Syndrome which is often experienced by pilgrims after returning from the Holy Land. Many of them feel an emotional void after returning to their daily routines.

“Post-Umrah/Hajj Syndrome is a psychological, emotional, and spiritual transition condition experienced by some pilgrims after performing major worship,” she explained.

She explained that this condition is characterized by feelings of emptiness, loss of meaning, decreased spiritual enthusiasm, and a deep longing for the sacred atmosphere in the Holy Land.

“However, it should be understood that this syndrome is not a psychiatric disorder, but an emotional response that is naturally experienced after going through a very intense spiritual experience,” said the figure who is familiarly called Mrs Mia.

In psychology, she said, this response is in line with the concept of post-event letdown. A person may feel empty or disoriented after a very meaningful and soulful life experience.

“Activities went on as usual, but my heart felt empty. Worship is not as soul-stirring as before. The mind often flies back to the atmosphere of Makkah and Madinah. I miss the chanting of prayers, the sacred atmosphere, and the peace of mind that is difficult to find in the hustle and bustle of life in the real world,” she explained.

Mrs Mia explained that the tension between social expectations and personal reality also colored the dynamics of Post-Umrah/Hajj Syndrome. In addition to inner dynamics, the post-hajj transition also takes place in a social context that is no less challenging.

In many Muslim communities, the title “Pak Haji” or “Bu Hajjah” brings with it societal expectations of more religious behavior, patience, and being a moral role model.

According to Mrs Mia, this kind of social pressure, although not always realized, can amplify the emotional burden felt, especially when individuals feel they have not been able to fully maintain the spiritual ideals acquired during their time in the Holy Land.

A study shows that around 1-1,3 percent of pilgrims experience mild psychological problems, such as anxiety, excessive sadness, and sleeplessness after the pilgrimage. Although the prevalence is small, this figure shows that emotional reactions after a major act of worship such as Hajj or Umrah are real and need to be addressed.

“The first step is to realize that the spiritual journey does not end in the Holy Land. Instead, the true challenge begins when we bring the spirit of worship back to real life,” she said.

To overcome this, she suggested several things that can be done. One way to strengthen oneself is to build a spiritual bridge by maintaining good habits that are usually done in the Holy Land even in simple forms.

“For example, for men, routine prayers at the mosque, women keep praying on time, multiply morning and evening dhikr, read the Qur’an regularly, write a gratitude journal, and strengthen friendship and social charity. Forming a post-umrah or hajj community can also be a means of strengthening each other and maintaining spiritual enthusiasm,” she said.

“No less important, make room for longing. Because longing is not a weakness, but a sign of love, that the heart was once so close to Him. Let the longing live, because from it grows the intention to return,” Mrs Mia added.

However, if emotional symptoms such as deep sadness, anxiety, or loss of spirit last more than two weeks and from day to day are getting more intense, even interfering with daily activities, she suggests consulting a psychologist or professional. (dh) (IAAS/LAN)