CONNECTOR.AE 40 CONNECTOR.AE 41 HEALTH AND WELLNESS HEALTH AND WELLNESS shares, “Simple daily habits can play a big role in strengthening mental well-being. Prioritising quality sleep, limiting social media use, staying physically active, and maintaining strong social connections are vital. For instance, prioritising quality sleep can help regulate stress levels and improve overall mood”. Spending time outdoors, practising gratitude, and enjoying small pleasures like a morning coffee in showing changes in appetite and sleep patterns. Physical symptoms such as persistent headaches, stomach issues or unexplained fatigue can also be indicators. Dr. Shadan Khawaja from German Neuroscience Centre also notes, “Recognising changes as lasting two weeks or more can be a strong indicator. Regularly checking in with friends and loved ones could make all the difference”. Who Is More Prone To Mental Health Struggles? Some people are naturally more vulnerable to mental health challenges than others, due to a combination of genetics, brain chemistry, personal experiences and environment. “Genetics can play a significant role, with a family history of mental illness often increasing one’s vulnerability”, says Dr. Shadan Khawaja from German Neuroscience Centre. Additionally, trauma, financial stress, toxic work conditions, and certain personality traits like perfectionism can further elevate the risk. Understanding that mental health issues often stem from a complex interplay of factors, not just a single cause, is crucial in fostering greater empathy and support. When it comes to mental health, early action is critical. “The best treatment for mental health is prevention”, says Dr. Shadan Khawaja from German Neuroscience Centre. Addressing symptoms early can help people develop healthy coping strategies before negative habits, like substance abuse, take root. Early intervention also prevents mental health struggles from escalating into more severe conditions that affect work, relationships, and everyday life. In cases where symptoms have already become severe, such as hallucinations or extreme emotional instability, medication may be recommended. Dr. Shadan Khawaja from German Neuroscience Centre points out, “Pairing medication, as needed, with therapy has shown to provide the best outcomes”. Regarding the role of social environments, Dubai’s vibrant yet fast-paced work culture comes with both opportunities and pressures. According to Dr. Hazar Zreik from German Neuroscience Centre, “The ‘always-on’ mentality can lead to chronic stress and burnout. Many employees work long hours, sometimes through weekends, which can lead to chronic stress, exhaustion and burn out”. Meanwhile, the lack of meaningful social connections, especially for new residents, can contribute to feelings of loneliness and emotional distress. Fortunately, workplaces that are proactive about psychological safety, offering wellness programs and support resources, can make a real difference in supporting employees’ mental health. Steps To Build Better Mental Resilience While external factors can be challenging, Dr. Hazar Zreik from German Neuroscience Centre the garden or a walk during lunch break can also contribute to better emotional health, according to both experts. Incorporating more fruit and vegetables into daily meals is another way to naturally boost mental resilience. Also, normalising mental health conversations in schools and workplaces is key to changing perceptions and thereby building a strong network that can strengthen one’s mental resilience. Stressing the importance of leadership in breaking the stigma, Dr. Hazar Zreik from German Neuroscience Centre says, “Leadership plays a crucial role. When senior figures openly discuss mental health, it helps reduce stigma”. Implementing peer-to-peer support programs in companies, student-led initiatives in educational institutions, and providing access to counselling servicesarepractical stepsorganisationscantake. Building a culture where it’s safe and encouraged to seek help will ensure better outcomes not just for individuals, but for the community at large. “The ‘always-on’ mentality can lead to chronic stress and burnout.’’
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