Dubai Expat Shares Story of Mental Health Crisis and Recovery

A Dubai resident is sharing his experience with severe depression, insomnia, and related physical symptoms, highlighting the critical connection between mental and physical wellbeing.

Pran, 32, recounted a terrifying moment in early 2024 when he froze while driving on a busy Dubai road, unable to react. “I completely froze while driving,” he said. “In a few moments, I thought, okay, today is either my last day, or I just need to keep driving. I somehow kept on driving.” This incident marked the first time he physically felt the impact of his depression, a condition that had been building for years, stemming from the loss of both parents in 2015 and 2016 and exacerbated by a toxic work environment. Prior to this, Pran experienced seven consecutive days without sleep in 2020, leading to a reliance on sleeping pills.

By May of this year, Pran’s mental health had manifested in a range of physical ailments, including recurring throat infections requiring antibiotics, acidity, gastric problems, and persistent eye floaters. After consulting numerous specialists, he sought alternative treatment from Dr. Yasir Shafi at Wellth Clinic in Dubai. Dr. Shafi’s approach focused on understanding the emotional triggers behind Pran’s symptoms, referencing concepts from German New Medicine, a controversial alternative theory. He also addressed vitamin and mineral deficiencies with targeted supplementation and incorporated sound healing techniques, specifically music at a 432 hertz frequency. You can learn more about the importance of mental health here.

Today, October 11, 2025, Pran reports significant improvement, stating, “With hand on heart, I think 70% to 80% of the problem is gone. I don’t see floaters normally. I’m back to normal driving and back to the normal routine and almost weaning off the antidepressants.” He continues treatment even after relocating to Abu Dhabi. The case underscores the growing recognition of the mind-body connection and the need for holistic approaches to healthcare. Dr. Shafi emphasized the importance of addressing emotions and triggers in mental health treatment, a departure from solely focusing on symptom management.

Officials encourage anyone struggling with mental health issues to seek support from a licensed healthcare professional.