Ramadan in UAE: How motorists can manage stress while rushing for Iftar

Dubai: Proper planning, deep breathing, staying calm, stress management, and recognising mental fatigue are some of the ways motorists can stay focused while driving, especially during busy times like rushing home for Ramadan iftar.

Doctors have shared some useful tips following the release of the 2024 official statistics, which show that factors like distracted driving, negligence, and inattention contributed to a significant number of fatalities and injuries on the roads in the country.

“Staying calm while driving starts with proper planning. Leaving a little earlier can reduce the pressure of rushing. Deep breathing and listening to calming music or a podcast can help maintain focus. Accepting that traffic is inevitable and reminding yourself that arriving safely is more important than speed can keep stress levels in check,” Dr Aslam Saleem, General Practitioner at Aster Hospital in Sharjah, said.

He noted that managing stress on the road requires a combination of mindset and preparation.

“Practicing mindfulness, such as being aware of your breathing and thoughts, helps. If stress or fatigue becomes overwhelming, taking a few deep breaths can help restore calm.”

Dr Saleem also said ensuring a comfortable driving position and stretching before getting into the car can prevent physical discomfort that adds to stress.

“Simple neck and shoulder stretches can relieve tension.”

Mental fatigue

Dr Hammad Khan, Senior Emergency Physician and Head of the Emergency Department at Prime Hospital, pointed out that people with anxiety and depression can develop mental fatigue due to excessive worry or intrusive thoughts, leading to decreased concentration while driving.

“These people may have slower reaction times on the roads due to poor mental health, which impairs cognition. Increased distractibility is another feature, which occurs when a person is preoccupied with worries. Some people who panic or feel irritable are more prone to road rage and may start to ignore road safety measures, even breaking laws.”

Dr Khan noted that preventive measures include seeking the help of mental health experts, practicing stress management exercises, meditating, and getting adequate sleep.

Symptoms

According to doctors, signs of mental fatigue or distraction while on the road include difficulty concentrating, frequent yawning, slow reaction times, missing road signs or turns, and feeling irritable or impatient with other drivers.

Dos:

Get enough sleep the night before

Eat a balanced suhoor

Keep the car well-ventilated to prevent drowsiness

Practice patience and courtesy on the road

Don’ts:

Drive aggressively

Skip suhoor

Neglect hydration

Use your phone

Adjust car control buttons