Israel-Gaza war, Iran tensions: UAE doctors warn of emotional toll on children of determination

Dubai: As violent images and reports from the Israel-Gaza war and Iran-related tensions flood social media platforms, mental health experts in the UAE are raising red flags about the hidden impact such conflict coverage may be having, particularly on children of determination.

Heightened vulnerability among children of determination

Doctors warn that even indirect exposure to news of war can trigger anxiety, fear, and behavioural changes in children with autism, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and intellectual disabilities.

Though many of these children may not fully grasp the political or geographical context, they remain acutely sensitive to emotional cues in their environment, including anxious adults and distressing visuals on screen.

Emotional distress without context

“Children, especially those in their formative years, are highly sensitive to the emotional climate around them,” said Dr Sudhanthira Devi Ramdoss, Specialist Psychiatrist at Aster Hospital, Qusais. “Even if children don’t fully understand the geopolitical context, they can internalise the fear conveyed through visuals, language, and adult reactions. This can manifest as increased anxiety, irritability, changes in eating habits, or disrupted sleep patterns.”

Why structure, routine matter more than ever

Children of determination, who already face challenges in processing emotions or adapting to changes in routine, may be especially vulnerable. Those with neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism or ADHD tend to rely heavily on predictability and structure, elements often disrupted during periods of global crisis.

“They may be more sensitive to loud sounds, disturbing visuals, or changes in routine triggered by discussions around global crises,” Dr Sudhanthira said. “For example, a child with autism might experience heightened sensory overload or rigidity in behaviour, while a child with ADHD may show increased restlessness or emotional dysregulation.”

Emotional overload impacts daily life

Dr Ajay Kumar, Specialist Psychiatrist at Prime Medical Centre, Dubai, echoed these concerns, highlighting that such children lack the emotional toolkit to process distressing or abstract information about war.

“Individuals with intellectual or physical disabilities have more challenges in regulating emotions, processing sensory stimuli and social understanding,” he said.

“They have heightened anxiety, increased sensory overload, aggressive or hyperactive response, and feeling overwhelmed that interferes with daily functioning, school performance and social interactions,” Dr Kumar said.

Red flags parents shouldn't ignore

Dr Sudhanthira highlighted a range of warning signs parents should watch for, including sudden behavioural changes such as increased clinginess, irritability, difficulty sleeping, nightmares, appetite shifts, or regressive behaviours like bedwetting.

In children with limited verbal communication, distress may present as repetitive movements, meltdowns, or withdrawal from previously enjoyed activities.

“Early identification of these signs allows for timely intervention,” she underlined.
Meanwhile, Dr Kumar pointed out that repetitive trauma play in young children, especially among people of determination, can be a silent cry for help.

Tips to support vulnerable children

To mitigate the emotional fallout, doctors urge families to take proactive steps. These include limiting exposure to distressing media, avoiding graphic news reports at home, and maintaining a consistent daily routine.
“Use visual aids or social stories to explain events in a safe and structured way,” Dr Sudhanthira advised, adding that individuals must be reassured that they are safe and supported.
“Be mindful of sensory triggers and practice calming routines in people with special needs,” Dr Kumar added. “Children, especially those with special needs, take emotional cues from the adults around them.”