Simple but effective ways you can help

For Muslim students, Ramadan is a significant but challenging time in the new year. It requires immense dedication and motivation, which means they may need some extra support during this time.

What is Ramadan?

Ramadan is the ninth month of Hijri (Lunar calendar) and during this time Muslims will pray, fast and reflect. From 17th Feb-18th/19th Mar, they fast during the day, meaning they don't eat or drink between the hours of dawn and dusk. As it is one month, you can imagine this can be challenging at times, so it's important to show your support and understanding whilst they balance studying, sleep and their spiritual goals. 

It's important to note that their hours may differ day-to-day depending on the sunrise and sunset times, and as the month progresses, sunrise will get earlier and sunset will get later, making the fasting day slightly longer towards the end of the month.

Check in

It's important to ask them how they are during this time. Their energy will drop due to the fasting, and so will their productivity levels. Offering help with practical tasks like tidying the living room or taking the bins out could be exactly what they need right now.

Be flexible

If you're planning activities, be mindful of their fasting hours. Make plans to go to the cinema or have a board game night instead of going out for lunch or coffee. Fasting will change their entire body clock, so it's important to be considerate, and they will appreciate the extra effort in supporting their new schedule.

Don't be afraid to learn

Ask questions! Muslims welcome questions and value your interest in their religion and culture. Sitting down with your flatmate during Ramadan and taking an interest could also be your way of showing support and understanding. 

Just ask

On a similar note, don't be afraid to ask your flatmates what they need. Everyone experiences Ramadan differently; some students may want to stay busy and distract themselves from hunger, but some may prefer to have more downtime. There isn't one step-by-step guide to follow.

Doing little things to help your flatmate can make a big difference to their Ramadan experience, and you'll also get to learn more about the friends you live with!