Dealing with Irritability in Uncertain Times

Explore our historical event from four years ago: In the four years prior, the world observed the repercussions of lockdowns affecting over 2.6 billion people. The resulting confinement and uncertainty triggered widespread burnout and stress. Tempers flared, irritability heightened, and individuals experienced frustration and increased sensitivity, straining relationships with colleagues, friends, and family. Confronted with unparalleled anxiety and its aftermath, the Staff Counsellors Office and the Office of the Ombudsman, in collaboration with UN Knowledge & Learning Commons, organized a webinar dialogue spanning two sessions.

The first part, presented in a lecture format, provided insights on two fronts: 1) effective management of internal dynamics to mitigate tempers, alleviate irritability, foster patience with those around us, and develop a greater sense of equanimity when confronted with stress-producing events, and 2) strategies for managing external relationships after succumbing to frustrations. The second part, conducted in a workshop format, allowed participants to experiment with different strategies to manage both their internal and external dynamics. Further information was provided during the event.

Participating in this session:

Speakers

Ms. Mary Bridget LEAHY, Staff Counsellor’s Office, HRMS at UN Geneva 
Ms. Roza Van Der HEIDE, Staff Counsellor’s Office, HRMS at UN Geneva 
Mr. Nicholas THEOTOCATOS, United Nations Ombudsman and Mediation Services 

Moderator

Natalie ALEXANDER, Knowledge & Learning Commons at UN Geneva