“We are safe” – Simple resources amid Iran conflict
No hyperbole or headlines, just help, support not superlatives….
Department of Health Abu Dhabi has activated the 24/7 Mental Health Support Hotline in collaboration with Sakina: 800-SAKINA (800-725462). It provides confidential, compassionate support, in Arabic and English, including support for children and families.
As they say: “Your well-being matters. Whether you’re experiencing anxiety, stress, panic, difficulty sleeping, or simply feeling overwhelmed, support is available around the clock.”
If you need more support if you are in Abu Dhabi – Download the Department of Health Sahatna app here https://lnkd.in/dmPUqtT3 for more mental health screening, and information about licensed mental health practicioners.
If you are in Dubai, the Dubai Health Authority has listed all its licensed mental health specialists here: https://lnkd.in/dirwk276
Scott Armstrong, mentl founder, also wanted to share advice from my daughter’s school (thanks Safa Community School) on how to talk to our children about the ongoing situation – advice I think we could all listen to:
• Keep conversations calm and simple – “We are safe.”
• Validate feelings without amplifying fear
• Model calm behaviour and stick to routines
• Monitor and limit repeated news exposure
That last one is important, headlines and articles by many international media organisations designed to garner profit from panic.
Three tips to protect your own mental well-being:
• Try to limit your news check-ins to windows per day (say two to three), not continuous grazing.
• Choose one or two reliable sources – government channels or trusted media.
• If you feel compelled to scroll, you are only human after all, try setting a timer and stop when it ends.
• Stay out of the comments section – trust me you’ll thank us.
Finally, some advice from a psychologist friend regarding the noises we hear as the UAE defends the nation. When you hear it:
• Say out loud a simple label: “That was an interception. Defensive system.” Naming reduces intensity because it re-engages our thinking brain.
• Slow exhale longer than inhale for 60 to 90 seconds (for example inhale 4, exhale 6). Long exhale signals “stand down” to the body.
• Ground your senses: feet on floor, notice 5 things you can see, smell, touch, hear etc. It tells the brain “I am here, right now, and I am safe.”
If you are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, struggling to sleep, or panicky, you do not have to push through alone.
