Coping With Loss And Grief During Prolonged Crises by Dr. Wael Salame

As part of the “Stay Aware alumni webinar series on Mental Wellbeing in Times of Crisis”, Alumni Relations held the second session entitled: Coping With Loss And Grief During Prolonged Crises by Dr. Wael Salame.

The webinar focused on the losses and grief people face during a crisis and how to cope with them while building resilience. It highlighted that loss can take many forms, including the loss of loved ones, control, certainty, jobs, income, homes, and even identity. Grieving these losses is essential, and it’s normal to feel moments of happiness during this time, which should not be seen as wrong. Coping involves finding new goals or relationships to focus on and replacing what has been lost to move forward. While grief is a natural process that can last more than three months, it’s important to work towards regaining normal function within that time. The discussion also touched on accepting life’s uncertainties rather than resisting them. One of the attendees shared her concerns about the many losses faced by Lebanese people, including a loss of identity. Dr. Salame, however, offered a perspective of pride in Lebanon’s resilience, likening its challenges to an assault survivor who grows stronger by rejecting self-blame and embracing recovery. The session concluded with hope for Lebanon’s resurgence, drawing parallels between individual and collective resilience.

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