As headlines continue to feel heavy, some healthcare groups across the UAE are stepping in with free mental health sessions, giving families the chance to speak confidentially with licenced psychologists from the comfort and privacy of their homes.
With regional developments dominating news cycles, healthcare professionals say living in a constant state of alert can disrupt sleep, shorten tempers, and gradually spill into everyday routines.
At clinics across the country, the message is consistent: protect your mental space as carefully as your physical safety.
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Asra Sarwar, clinical psychologist at Aster Clinic, explained that repeated exposure to distressing news keeps the brain on high alert.
“When we are exposed to repeated alarming information, the brain remains in a heightened state of alert. Over time, this can lead to anxiety, irritability, poor concentration, sleep disturbance, and even panic symptoms.
“It’s important to understand that the reaction itself is not a sign of weakness — it’s the nervous system trying to protect us,” she added. “However, constant exposure to distressing updates can keep that alarm system switched on unnecessarily.”
While global events are beyond individual control, Sarwar stressed that daily habits are not. “We cannot control global events, but we can control how much media we consume, the preventive safety steps we follow, and how we structure our day. Focusing on what is within our control reduces feelings of helplessness.”
To support families during this period, Aster is offering complimentary consultations. “We are supporting our community during this time with free online mental well-being video consultations for the next three days via the myAster app. These consultations are accessible across the UAE, allowing families to speak confidentially with licensed psychologists from the comfort of home.”
Protect your mental space
Other specialists echo the concern that stress does not remain confined to emotions alone. Dr Vassiliki Simoglou, psychologist at Almond Blossoms, warned that the impact can extend beyond mood and sleep.
“Traumatic stress does not only disrupt psychological functioning; it can have an impact on physical and reproductive health, as well as overall wellbeing. In times like these, it is crucial to consciously protect your mental space, creating mental ‘downtime’ and prioritising self-care.”
Medics emphasise that simple boundaries can make a meaningful difference. Sarwar advised families to limit exposure to updates and maintain structure at home.
“Choose one or two specific times to check verified updates, and avoid continuous scrolling. This alone significantly reduces anxiety levels. Second, protect routine. Regular mealtimes, structured days, and consistent sleep schedules provide psychological stability, especially for children. Third, have calm, factual conversations. Avoid speculation or worst-case discussions at home. Children and adolescents often absorb adult anxiety, so modelling composed behaviour is important.”
When to seek professional help
For parents, recognising when normal fear turns into something more serious is key. Dr Barjis Sulthana, psychiatrist at NMC Specialty Hospital, Dubai, said some anxiety is expected — especially among children exposed to loud noises or unsettling headlines.
“However, parents should pay attention when the reaction is much stronger than what is typical for the child’s age or the situation,” she said. “Signs that fear may be becoming more concerning include panic-like reactions, extreme clinginess, or intense distress even when things are currently safe.”
She noted that persistent sleep disruptions and behavioural regression may signal deeper distress. “Parents may also notice ongoing sleep problems such as difficulty falling asleep, frequent waking, nightmares, or night terrors. Younger children might return to earlier behaviours like bedwetting, thumb-sucking, baby talk, or refusing to separate from parents, which often indicates that the child is overwhelmed and needs more support than usual.”
When such patterns begin to affect daily functioning, she advised seeking professional help. “Parents should then seek guidance from a qualified mental health professional who can help assess the child’s needs and provide appropriate support.”
Above all, doctors say predictability restores a sense of safety. “Creating small, predictable routines helps counter the feeling of chaos. Keeping regular times for waking, meals, and winding down anchors the day and signals safety to the brain. Even simple habits — tidying a space, preparing a meal, or planning the next few hours — can restore a sense of order when the outside world feels unpredictable.”
Source: Khaleej Times