To support the alumni’s wellbeing amidst the ongoing war and fortify the bridge between the institution and its graduates, the Alumni Relations Office launched a new lecture series focusing on Mental Health in Times of Crisis with a session on November 6 titled Navigating Mental Health Challenges in Times of War & Crisis.

The webinar, led by Dr. Wael Salame (BS ’08; MD ’13), a clinical assistant professor at the Gilbert and Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, tackled timely topics, such as collective desensitization and the importance of processing traumatic events and recognizing common signs of heightened anxiety. The interactive session was attended by LAU alumni residing in Lebanon and abroad.

“The topics of the webinars, which are part of the Alumni Office’s Stay Aware Lecture Series, are carefully chosen to show a deep understanding of our alumni’s needs, demonstrating the extended role of the Alumni Office beyond traditional networking, especially during challenging times,” said Assistant Vice President for Alumni Relations Abdallah El Khal.

Having Dr. Salame, an alumnus himself, present the webinar strengthens the community bond, he added. “We want to ensure our alumni feel connected, cared for and not struggling alone.”

An attendee living outside of Lebanon asked how she could support her family and friends experiencing the conflict firsthand. Dr. Salame advised her to “be a social listener” and “acknowledge their vulnerability” when they choose to share it, rather than constantly asking if they need help.

“People are reluctant to ask for help because they are conditioned to protect their egos,” he explained. “Therefore, we need to reassure them in a way that shows we’re giving them attention, without drawing attention to their need for it.”

When asked about the series of traumatic events people in Lebanon have endured, which have led many to normalize the negativity and become emotionally numb, Dr. Salame emphasized the importance of processing the experiences. He acknowledged that working through these accumulated challenges would be a long journey, but assured that it is possible, as history has shown.

“The antidote to normalization is acknowledging that we are not okay and accepting that things have changed,” he said.

The second webinar, titled Coping with Loss and Grief During Prolonged Crises by Dr. Salame took place on November 20, and you can watch it here. 

To watch the live recording of the first session, click here.