Listen "Episode 6: Grounded in Uncertainty"
Episode Synopsis
In this episode:Uncertainty is something we all face, but for individuals living with serious health conditions, and their caregivers, it can feel overwhelming. In this episode, host Michaela Tobin is joined by Monica Bryant and special guest Julie Larson, LCSW, to explore practical ways to find calm, stay grounded, and build resilience in the midst of change.Julie brings years of experience as a licensed clinical social worker supporting individuals with serious illnesses. Together, the conversation unpacks why uncertainty feels so heavy, what it does to our mental and emotional wellbeing, and how to create practices that foster stability even when the world feels out of control.Got a question for the podcast? Email us at [email protected]!Key ThemesFinding Calm in UncertaintyJulie Larson emphasized that the goal is not to “find answers” but to find calm.Calm allows for clearer thinking, stronger connections, and better collaboration.Coping StrategiesRecognize stress responses (fight, flight, freeze).Practice present moment awareness and self-check-ins (“How am I doing?”).Use grounding “entrance ramps”:Thoughts: Challenge unhelpful narratives, ask if you’re a reliable narrator.Emotions: Identify what your feelings are telling you (e.g., need for comfort or connection).Body: Move, breathe, hydrate, or step away when stress shows physically.Professional Well-BeingCompassion fatigue and burnout are common, especially when staff deliver hard news.Strategies include:Setting boundaries between your emotions and the caller’s emotions.Debriefing and restoring balance after difficult calls.Giving yourself credit for trying, showing up, and staying steady for others.Workplace & Team ToolsTriage Cancer’s legal team uses “throw spaghetti at the wall” brainstorming to problem-solve when no clear answer exists—this can also be applied to coping with uncertainty.Weekly positive navigation stories during staff meetings help “install the good” and remind staff of the impact they’re making.Balancing Information IntakeStaying informed is important, but too much news can increase anxiety.Teams should watch for the tipping point between helpful venting and ruminating.Advocacy as CopingAdvocacy can be empowering when it helps people feel they’re contributing to change.But if it leads to constant agitation, balance and self-awareness are key. Practical Tools to ShareThe “Board Meeting in Your Brain” MetaphorEach emotion (fear, worry, anger) is a “board member” with a purpose.You are the chairperson—you decide when to acknowledge and when to move forward.Installing the GoodBalance hardship by intentionally naming what’s working and what’s positive.Helps restore perspective and resilience.Featured Resources MentionedQuick Guide to Accessing Mental Health CareQuick Guide to Stress ManagementStress: What is it and what to do about itConnect with Julie Larson: Website: JulieLarsonlcsw.com/Social:Instagram: @jlarsonlcswLinkedIn: Julie Larson, LCSW Connect with Triage Cancer &Triage Health:Website: TriageCancer.org | TriageHealth.orgSocial:Instagram: @triagecancer | @triage_healthFacebook: Triage Cancer | Triage_HealthLinkedIn: Triage Cancer | Triage HealthBluesky: @triagecancer.org | @triagehealth.org
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