The uncertainty of the current situation has heightened everyday worries we once managed, amplifying work-related stress alongside other life pressures. However, with community support, institutional preparedness and flexibility in the office, a safe and healthy working environment can serve as a protective factor for mental health.

In line with recognizing World Mental Health Day and this year’s theme of prioritizing mental health at work, the LAU Gilbert and Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine’s Office for Continuing Medical Education (CME), in collaboration with the School of Arts and Sciences (SoAS), held the third session of its ongoing weekly Q&A psychotherapy webinar series, titled Managing Workplace Stress in Uncertain Times, on October 9.

Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry Jocelyne Azar from the school of medicine and Associate Professor of Psychology Myriam El Khoury Malhame at SoAS conducted an online counseling session for LAU faculty and staff, on strategies for managing work-related stress during the current turbulent times while addressing the attendees’ concerns.

In the absence of a scientific guide for managing stress during wartime, the speakers encouraged participants to share their coping experiences, contributing to a growing collective wisdom. Dr. Malhame led by example, recounting how she turned to her mother—a psychologist who had navigated similar situations during past wars—for guidance. “Don’t hesitate to reach out to those who know,” she advised. “It is part of being ready in times of conflict.”

The speakers acknowledged that stress affects everyone differently, particularly in times of conflict, where individual responses can vary based on age and experiences of previous wars.

Dr. Malhame highlighted how sonic booms, for instance, trigger panic both at work and at home, tapping into one’s innate survival instincts. These automatic responses are hardwired into us, making it difficult to control the initial surge of fear. However, she suggested reframing the situation and understanding that hearing a sonic boom means the immediate danger has passed. This shift in perspective can help mitigate the automatic panic response.

In all cases, it’s crucial to be psychologically prepared both personally and professionally. This involves seeking reliable information about security, and recognizing that the overall experience of balancing work and life will likely feel like an emotional rollercoaster.

Dr. Malhame highlighted how the school of medicine’s crisis preparedness, through simulations, has helped reduce staff’s stress levels.

According to Dr. Azar, long-term stress caused by uncertainty can affect our professional lives, as our ability to adapt weakens compared to managing short-term stress. Workers may become more irritable, struggle to focus or maintain productivity and sometimes isolate themselves due to feelings of being misunderstood by others, which is particularly common among those who have experienced the consequences of the war firsthand.

If these symptoms persist and are left untreated by professionals, they may develop into psychiatric disorders such as major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders, ADHD and sleep related disorders.

“That is why workplace tensions need to be collectively addressed in a timely manner, as we all have an impact on one another,” added Dr. Azar.

“However, we need to acknowledge that business can’t proceed as usual, and productivity will naturally fluctuate,” noted Dr. Malhame, “so we must be compassionate toward ourselves and toward others.”

It is equally important to employ coping mechanisms that help one face the day—whether it’s using humor, venting to a coworker, journaling, or following simple self-care routines like getting enough sleep and eating well. Regardless of the method one chooses, Dr. Malhame advises, refueling one’s energy is paramount.

For some, going to work can serve as a distraction from current events and may act as a coping mechanism through short-term denial. This is an acceptable survival response, noted Dr. Malhame, as long as individuals know when to reconnect with reality.

“When talking to colleagues, share positive aspects of your life,” she added. “Talk things through but avoid ruminating.”

One of the questions brought up by attendees was the challenge that faculty face in addressing students’ concerns about their learning process and future. In response, Dr. Malhame underscored the importance of candid conversations like sharing their coping mechanisms with students and asking them what they do to manage stress. She noted, “We don’t need to put on a strong front or armor; we are all living through the same situation.”

Dr. Azar addressed another concern raised about the likelihood of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) during prolonged conflict exposure. She explained that only 5 to 9 percent of those who experience a traumatic event will develop PTSD.

At the end of the session, Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs and Development at the school of medicine and moderator of the online meeting Vanda Abi Raad shared the contact details of the current speakers, as well as those from previous sessions, for the benefit of attendees who wished to connect with the psychiatry and psychology departments for confidential one-on-one consultations.

To view the recording of this session, please click here.