Every May, communities around the world come together to recognise Mental Health Awareness Month, a tradition that began in 1949 to shed light on the importance of mental and emotional well-being. This movement aims to fight stigma, provide support, and educate people about the importance of mental health in every stage of life. Over the decades, it has grown into a powerful call to action for individuals, families, and communities to prioritise mental wellness alongside physical health.
In honour of Mental Health Awareness Month, Connector spoke with experts from the German Neuroscience Centre in Dubai to explore why conversations around mental health are more important than ever. Through their insights, we discover practical advice, warning signs to look out for, and everyday strategies to support mental well-being in Dubai’s dynamic, fast-paced environment.
Why Mental Health Should Be A Priority
Dr. Shadan Khawaja, Psychologist and Behavioural Analyst at the German Neuroscience Centre, highlights how deeply connected our mental and physical health are. “Maintaining physical health is widely recognised as essential, and for good reason. Yet far less attention is given to how poor mental health, caused by chronic stress, depression, anxiety etc., can directly harm our physical well-being”, says Dr. Shadan Khawaja from German Neuroscience Centre. Poor mental health can weaken the immune system, impair cognitive function, and even contribute to cardiovascular and digestive problems, creating a vicious cycle where physical and emotional health deteriorate together.
One of the biggest hurdles is the persistent misconception that needing therapy is a sign of weakness. “Misconceptions often prevent people from seeking help, as many see therapy as a weakness, or believe they’ll simply 'snap out of it', delaying support until symptoms have worsened. However, these inaccurate perceptions aren’t applied to physical conditions”, Dr. Shadan Khawaja from German Neuroscience Centre adds. Recognising the importance of mental health early on can prevent more serious conditions from developing, and improve quality of life significantly.
For the UAE’s large expat population, mental health challenges can often be even more pronounced. Dr. Hazar Zreik, Clinical Psychologist at the German Neuroscience Centre, explains that living away from home brings its own set of emotional struggles. “Imagine being far from family and friends, navigating a high-pressure work environment, and adjusting to a new culture, all at the same time”, says Dr. Hazar Zreik from German Neuroscience Centre.
Feelings of isolation, anxiety and homesickness are common among expats. Visa dependencies, demanding work environments, and cultural adjustments can add additional layers of stress. While awareness around mental health is growing in the UAE, stigma can still deter individuals from seeking professional help. However, setting boundaries between work and personal time, as many working professionals have successfully done, can go a long way in maintaining balance.
Signs Someone May Be Silently Struggling
Often, those who are struggling with their mental health don’t show obvious signs. Dr. Shadan Khawaja from German Neuroscience Centre advises paying attention to social, emotional, behavioural, cognitive and physical cues. “A noticeable shift in social preferences such as withdrawal, cancelling plans, or isolating themselves from others could be a warning sign”, Dr. Shadan Khawaja from German Neuroscience Centre explains.
Other signs include neglecting personal hygiene, living in cluttered spaces, missing deadlines, or 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 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 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 services are practical steps organisations can take. 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.