Panellists and participants during the event.
Doha, Qatar: The Qatar Social and Cultural Center for the Blind (QSCCB) organised a specialised awareness seminar that discussed the topic of psychological resilience and smart coping in times of crisis, presented by disability expert, psychological consultant, and Advisor to the Qatar Society for Rehabilitation of Special Needs (QSRSN) Dr. Tarek Al Aisawi.
The seminar focused on mechanisms for managing stress resulting from current regional circumstances and enhancing psychological stability among individuals.
It reviewed the scientific characteristics of a traumatic event based on the American Psychiatric Association criteria, which defines trauma as being linked to the elements of surprise and a severe threat to safety.
The session highlighted that an individual’s perception of the event determines the depth of its psychological impact, emphasising the importance of not exaggerating situations.
The seminar put forward practical strategies for coping with stress, including avoiding panic attacks and depression, and maintaining a structured routine, such as staying physically active, exercising, and following a healthy diet, as a protective shield for mental health.
It also emphasised the importance of social support by strengthening connections with family and friends, avoiding isolation, and seeking professional advice or reaching out to national psychological support hotlines if symptoms persist.
The lecturer discussed advanced techniques for treating post-traumatic stress disorder, including imagined exposure to overcome fear, real-life exposure, and journaling as a tool for emotional release.
This event is part of a broader series of programmes aimed at fostering a safe and supportive psychological environment for members of the Qatar Social and Cultural Center for the Blind, enabling them to face rapid changes with resilience and stability.
— QNA
