Yom Kippur Fast for a Depression Sufferer
Question
Hello. I am a 39-year-old unmarried man suffering from melancholy and bipolar depression, which often causes me to have either a lack of appetite or an increased appetite, as well as sleep disturbances. For example, I can sometimes go to sleep at 5 in the morning because I couldn't fall asleep. My question is, am I obligated to fast? And how much, etc. I would appreciate an answer.
Answer
Have a good year and a complete recovery!
In your situation, there is no obligation to fast.
If you feel that you have the strength to start the fast, start it. But if you feel weakness or an emotional collapse, stop fasting immediately, and eat and drink as usual.
Source
Shulchan Aruch, Section Orach Chaim, chapter 618
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