Moving to a new country is a leap of faith, but for Kiran A., a native of Kochi, it has become a test of endurance. Stationed on a ship in the Gulf, his days are measured in twelve-hour shifts, but his mind is often miles away with the family he left behind. Away from home and watching missiles cross the skies, Kiran says it is difficult to move past each day.
"It is difficult to cope with," Kiran admits, describing a life lived between machinery clangs and the sudden, heart-stopping emergency sirens that ensure even rest is a luxury he can't afford.
"An emergency alert came in on my phone around midnight while I was sleeping soundly. It was a message advising caution and warning us not to go out into the streets due to the heightened tensions. I was able to go back to sleep only after 2-3 hours," said Kiran.
Between the waves of flight cancellations and the sight of missiles crossing the sky, the uncertainty of when it will be safe to return home—compounded by strict travel restrictions—creates a deeply distressing environment for those stranded.
Sarah Vincent, who was on a vacation with her family, got stranded in the UAE amid the ongoing Iran war. "I had booked my tickets for return on February 28. Still, the airline has not confirmed when I can return home," said Vincent, a resident of Chennai.
With the special relief flights operational in the UAE, with direct flights from Dubai, Vincent hopes that she can return soon.
During periods of intense struggle, consulting an expert can provide the tools needed to safeguard your mental well-being and move forward.
Confidential support is available for residents facing mental health challenges, offering help for everything from sleep difficulties to serious emotional distress.
How to reach the mental health support team
*National mental support line
The National Program for Happiness and Wellbeing runs a dedicated mental support line from 8 am to 8 pm daily.
You can call or send a WhatsApp message to: 800-HOPE (800 4673)
*Indian Workers Resource Centre helpline: 800 46342
*Abu Dhabi: Estijaba helpline
It has staff trained by medical professionals from Abu Dhabi Health Authority, Seha. Helpline number: 800 1717
* Aster DM Healthcare: Aster DM Healthcare is offering online mental well-being video consultations via its myAster app.
*MedicoArabia mental health helpline: It provides services 24/7 with access to licensed professionals, trauma-informed counselling, crisis support and multilingual assistance across the UAE. +971 56 900 5443 or +971 50 159 0070