In times of global uncertainty, it is important to remember that you do not have to carry the weight of your thoughts alone. When the internal world becomes overwhelming, reaching out is a great act of strength. We are here to provide a safe space for those moments when living inside your head becomes too much. Dr Jane Halsall, a chartered counselling psychologist at Cornerstone Clinic Dubai, is available to support you during this delicate period by providing helpful techniques to help you manage stress.
We understand how constant exposure to distressing news creates a state of anticipatory anxiety, in which the body prepares for danger and remains in a heightened state of alert by activating the brain’s threat system, leading to racing thoughts, irritability, sleep disruption, poor concentration, and physical symptoms such as headaches.
When people hear explosions, sirens, or receive emergency-related updates, the nervous system interprets this as ongoing danger and the distinction between news and lived threat begins to blur, leading to prolonged worry and emotional exhaustion. These reactions are, however, considered normal. These responses are your brain’s way of trying to keep you safe in an unpredictable environment. For those with past trauma or conflict experience, may trigger trauma-related responses. Possible reactions may include flashbacks, heightened startle responses, vivid dreams, emotional numbness, irritability or sudden waves of fear. Trauma is stored in the body as well as the mind.
When the world feels unpredictable, your brain demands for predictable rhythms, in other words, routines. This means:
So what can we do during this time to keep us grounded?
To book a consultation or for more information, call +971 50 494 6377 to schedule an appointment with our counselling psychologist, Dr Jane Halsall,
Dr Jane Halsall is a Chartered Counselling Psychologist with over 20 years of clinical experience supporting individuals across a wide range of mental health settings, including private practice, healthcare, and corporate environments. Dr Halsall is fully registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) in the UK and holds an active Dubai Health Authority (DHA) licence, enabling her to practise to the highest professional and ethical standards in both regions.
