Spiritual burnout of students: Diagnosis and therapy in the tradition of Islamic boarding schools

Andari, Fella Cloris, Faza, Nindya Zaskia, Zarkasih, Havianda Rizki and Amiruddin, Muhammad ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3405-6443 (2026) Spiritual burnout of students: Diagnosis and therapy in the tradition of Islamic boarding schools. GAJIE: Global Journal of Islamic Education, 2 (2). pp. 136-146. ISSN 3110-651X

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Abstract

Spiritual burnout among Islamic boarding school (pesantren) students has emerged as a significant issue amid the intensive demands of religious observances, academic responsibilities, and the disciplined lifestyle of pesantren education. This study aims to examine the phenomenon of spiritual burnout among santri, develop an integrative diagnostic framework that combines modern psychological perspectives with the Salaf pesantren tradition, and formulate contextual therapeutic strategies for its recovery. Employing a qualitative approach through library research, this study draws upon scholarly books, journal articles, and relevant literature on burnout, mental health, Sufism, and Islamic boarding school education. The collected data were analyzed using a descriptive-analytical method within an integrative conceptual framework. The findings reveal that spiritual burnout is characterized by diminished enthusiasm for worship, reduced spiritual concentration (khushu’), loss of existential meaning, declining learning motivation, and a tendency toward social withdrawal. Accurate diagnosis requires the integration of psychological indicators, such as emotional exhaustion and motivational decline, with spiritual indicators, including weakened hudhur al-qalb (presence of heart) and inconsistency in devotional practices. Effective therapeutic interventions include Sufi-based spiritual exercises, riyadhah, tazkiyat al-nafs, communal support within the pesantren environment, guidance from religious mentors, and selected modern psychological techniques. This study concludes that a holistic approach integrating psychology and the Pesantren tradition offers a comprehensive framework for diagnosing and addressing spiritual burnout while fostering the mental and spiritual well-being of santri.

Item Type:	Journal Article
Keywords:	pesantren; santri; spiritual burnout; spiritual diagnosis; sufi-based therapy
Subjects:	05 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES > 0502 Environmental Science and management > 050203 Environmental Education and Extension 11 MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES > 1117 Public Health and Health Services > 111705 Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety 12 BUILT ENVIRONMENT AND DESIGN > 1205 Urban and Regional Planning > 120504 Land Use and Environmental Planning 13 EDUCATION > 1301 Education Systems > 130109 Pesantren (Islamic boarding school) 20 LANGUAGE, COMMUNICATION AND CULTURE > 2002 Cultural Studies > 200206 Globalisation and Culture 22 PHILOSOPHY AND RELIGIOUS STUDIES > 2204 Religion and Religious Studies > 220405 Religion and Society
Divisions:	Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences > Department of Pharmacy
Depositing User:	Muhammad Amiruddin
Date Deposited:	17 Jun 2026 15:38

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