What helps us stay connected to ourselves and our identities even when we’re patients in a healthcare setting?

This is the second episode in a 2-part series inspired by listener Debbie Margulies' powerful question about maintaining control in medical settings and managing unhelpful pity from others based on your medical condition. Elizabeth interviews oncology social worker Samantha Hulett about her experience working with patients and their families. In this conversation, Sam shares the importance of identifying for ourselves what our priorities are in life. In addition, she speaks to the importance of slowing ourselves and our providers down in order to ensure that our needs are getting met and we are getting the clarity we need. 

Key Takeaways

• Keeping a journal by the bed can be a useful way to record any thoughts that arise when the distractions aren’t as prevalent before bedtime. This can become a tool to help later formulate questions and concerns to take to the doctor. 
• Value-based decision making can be helpful in determining your non-negotiable priorities in your life, even while undergoing medical treatment. 
• Slowing ourselves down before, during, and after medical visits can help us remain clear about the questions we need answered, and to help us remain grounded and centered. 

Resources

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