During the difficult times that Lebanon is facing with socio-economic woes and forced displacement as a result of escalation at the border, the mental health of those residing in Lebanon is put into question. Unfortunately, women are ones of the most affected individuals in the society and are suffering from increased levels of isolation, loneliness, anxiety, and stress. Additionally, cultural stigmas and societal expectations can compound the stress of daily life, making it difficult for women to seek help or even recognize their own mental health needs.  

For this reason, the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC) has created a safe space for women so that they can talk about their emotions while learning how to deal with them and the difficult situation. Hence, the MECC Diakonia and Social Service Department, Lebanon’s Office, implements a series of psychological support sessions in which participants are being taught about how stress affects them physically, what are the symptoms, how to treat and how to prevent, they become more knowledgeable about the topic and therefore will better understand themselves.   

Also, the ladies are taught some physical exercise to relieve some stress. By targeting a small group of women, the MECC can make a difference since beneficiaries end up learning new tools which they can use to better their lives and the lives of others. 

It should be noted that psychological support sessions were held recently in partnership with the Mennonite Central Committee – MCC organization, at Our Lady Dispensary (OLD), affiliated with the MECC, in the Sabtieh region–Mount Lebanon.