Psychological impact of predeparture medical screening on middle-aged hajj pilgrims: A cross-sectional study using srq-20 in Malang City

Indrawan, Doby ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0008-4074-1942 and Hilmi, Muhammad Aqsal Pasha (2026) Psychological impact of predeparture medical screening on middle-aged hajj pilgrims: A cross-sectional study using srq-20 in Malang City. International Journal of Integrated Science and Technology, 4 (6). pp. 365-374. ISSN 3026-4685

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Abstract

Background: Although physical eligibility (istitha’ah) is a central focus of Hajj health screening in Indonesia, the psychological dimension of readiness remains understudied. The third-stage predeparture medical examination, designed to confirm fitness for pilgrimage, may evoke emotional tension due to fear of disqualification especially among middle-aged pilgrims who often face comorbidities and psychosocial vulnerability. Objective: This study aimed to assess the psychological impact of stage-three medical screening on middle-aged Hajj pilgrims in Malang City, using the Self-Reporting Questionnaire-20 (SRQ-20), a screening tool for common mental disorders recommended by the World Health Organization. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 172 pilgrims aged 45–65 who had completed the third-stage health screening at the Sukolilo Hajj Dormitory in Surabaya. Participants were selected purposively and assessed using the SRQ-20 instrument. Descriptive statistical analysis was applied to determine levels of psychological distress. Results: The mean SRQ-20 score was 1.14 (SD = 1.08), with no respondents scoring above the clinical cut-off (>5). This indicates an absence of significant emotional distress or psychiatric symptoms post-screening. The data suggest that the health clearance process served as a source of psychological reassurance rather than anxiety, reinforcing pilgrims’ mental readiness for Hajj. Conclusion: Third-stage predeparture medical screening does not appear to compromise psychological well-being. On the contrary, it may enhance emotional resilience and preparedness. Incorporating brief mental health screening tools such as the SRQ-20 into existing istitha’ah protocols is recommended to promote holistic Hajj health certification

Item Type:	Journal Article
Keywords:	mental health; srq-20; medical screening; middle-aged pilgrims; istitha’ah
Subjects:	11 MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES > 1117 Public Health and Health Services > 111714 Mental Health
Divisions:	Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences > Department of Medical Education
Depositing User:	Doby Indrawan
Date Deposited:	29 Jul 2026 08:22

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