‘Reframing mind can help cope with distress’

Mariecar Jara-Puyod, Senior Reporter

The ability to spring back to life from distressing or tough circumstances depends on the reframing of the mind or the “power of thought.”

Emirati Mental Health Ambassador Amna Al Haddad talked about this extensively being the featured speaker at the recent webinar “Building Resilience: Unlocking the Key to Achieve Your Goals” of the Be Bold Youth Leadership Programme of the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHaP).

Launched in late February this year, Be Bold is the 15-week collaborative project of the government agency with the regional Dubai-based “Entrepreneur Middle East” magazine. It aims to formulate and carry out innovations in the fields of cardiovascular diseases, mental health, childhood obesity and geriatric care, with the assistance from young healthcare professionals. it wants to inspire and empower the younger UAE citizens and residents by providing them with avenues to improve on their limitations and skills sets.

Thus, the forum with Al Haddad, the first Arab woman to compete at the Crossfit Asia Regional 2012 who had farther broken the glass ceiling by competing extremely well in weightlifting events around the globe-in hijab-bringing home six gold and three silver medals.

Early on, the former journalist-turned-motivational speaker pointed out that each morning and day become an opportunity to opt for “useful and meaningful thoughts amidst 200 or so decisions to arrive at. Two points Al Haddad raised: “How we think matters” and “we have to harness our skills.”

These, even as everyone must admit that rejections and defections are unavoidable too.

Al Haddad demonstrated this in her discussion of the beginnings of and in her journey as a novice weightlifter on training, eyeing the Olympics-and some disagreed with her choice and determination-due to cultural orientations.

Al Haddad stressed: “You have to believe in yourself. (When you pursue), would it add value to others.”

She brought up the other side of the coin and impressed the audience on the significance of accountability: “Would it be harmful?”

At some point, Al Haddad said: “I (hold) myself accountable to the goal.”

For her, contentment comes with success. She underscored this in reply to a forwarded question regarding over-confidence: “I do not want to be over-confident. You have to accept yourself.”

Al Haddad’s formula to resilience: Remaining curious and unafraid to inquire; Having the grit to express emotions; Knowing and Focusing on strengths; Interrupting thoughts and Laughing as humour helps; Taking immediate actions yet Embracing setbacks; Committing; and Expanding one’s comfort zone or pushing the limits.