Stress and coping among university faculty and staff at a medical university in the post-pandemic context: a qualitative analysis.

BACKGROUND: Occupational stress among university faculty and staff has been widely documented, with increasing levels reported globally. The COVID-19 pandemic introduced new pressures, and the resumption of on-site work created reintegration challenges that further affected employees' well-being. This study aimed to explore the main stressors, coping mechanisms, and strategies to support faculty and staff at the Medical University of Varna (MU-Varna).

METHODS: This qualitative study represented the second stage of an investigation into the mental health of MU-Varna employees in the post-COVID period. Data from two focus groups with 24 faculty and staff members were thematically analyzed following Braun and Clarke's approach. Conventions of trustworthiness (credibility, dependability, confirmability, and transferability) were adhered to in order to ensure rigor.

RESULTS: Four key stress-inducing factors were identified: work overload, problematic workplace relationships, administrative and organizational difficulties, and the need for social contact and support. Participants primarily reported constructive coping strategies, such as seeking social support and problem-solving, although some maladaptive behaviors, including self-blame and self-criticism, were also observed.

CONCLUSION: This study contributes to the understanding of occupational stress and coping by focusing on post-pandemic reintegration within a medical university context - a setting that combines academic and clinical responsibilities. The findings extend Lazarus and Folkman's transactional model by revealing culturally and institutionally specific coping responses. The proposed support strategies emphasize training in communication and conflict management, professional development, and team-building to foster resilience and employee well-being in academia.