We've all likely found ourselves in that awkward situation where someone we love is hurting.  Maybe they are grieving the loss of a relationship, the death of a family member, the fear of losing a job or even the sadness of having a sick child. In our search to find the perfect helpful words, it can be easy to say the wrong thing. or worse, not say anything at all. 

In this episode, Dr. Denise Bickel joins us again to give us practical wisdom about what to say - and not to say - when someone we love is hurting. Her decades of experience will help us all be wiser, and consequently, kinder the next time we find ourselves in this position.

Guest:
Dr. Denise Bickel, PhD, MSW, LCSW, has decades of experience as a palliative care social worker and is an adjunct professor at the University of Denver. Denise is also an avid Crossfit participant and former triathlete and marathoner. She is also Robin's mentor. 

(4:00) These are the things that are ALWAYS appropriate to say.

(7:00) Offering someone in need your help is a beautiful gesture, but Denise explains how it can actually be more stressful than helpful. Here are better ways to frame your desire to support your friends and family. 

(10:30) Want to walk along someone during a hardship? Here is the best advice for doing so in the most meaningful way.

(12:45) Here is the one tip that Rachel and Denise have both found is helpful in encouraging people to open up during a conversation. 

(17:30) The one thing you should never say to someone struggling through a difficult situation. 

(24:00) Ever given well-intentioned advice to someone in the midst of their struggle? Here's why it might cause more harm than good. 

(26:00) Want to truly be helpful? Here's why your job is to embrace the awkwardness.

(28:00) What do you do when someone says something (or nothing) and your feelings get hurt?  

Suggested Resources:
Option B: Facing Adversity, Building Resilience, and Finding Joy
By Sheryl Sandberg

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