Understanding Grief with Krista St-Germain: Episode 119

Understanding Grief with Krista St. Germain

Hosts: Amanda Dinsmore, Laura Cazier, Kendra Morrison

Guest: Krista St. Germain - Widow, Master Certified Life Coach, Post-Traumatic Growth and Grief Expert, Host of the Widowed Moms Podcast

Introduction:
In this episode, Amanda, Laura, and Kendra welcome Krista St. Germain to the show. Physicians often encounter patients on their worst days, yet they find themselves unprepared to handle grief, whether it’s their patients', their families', or even their own. Krista, a grief expert, shares her personal journey and professional insights on understanding and dealing with grief.

Key Topics Discussed:

1. Krista's Personal Story:
- Krista shares her experience of losing her husband in a tragic accident and how it led her to become a grief coach.
- The importance of having accurate information about grief to reduce suffering.

2. The Myth of the Five Stages of Grief:
- Origins of the five stages of grief by Elizabeth Kubler-Ross and how it was intended for those facing terminal diagnoses.
- Misconceptions and misapplications of the five stages model in modern grief understanding.

3. Broader Definition of Grief:
- Expanding the understanding of grief beyond bereavement to any perceived loss.
- Recognizing that grief is a natural response and not something to be "solved."

4. Supporting Patients in Grief:
- The importance of being present and validating the grieving person's feelings rather than trying to fix or minimize their pain.
- Extending grace to oneself and others when discussing grief.

5. Physicians Handling Their Own Grief:
- The challenges doctors face in dealing with their grief due to the nature of their work.
- Tips for doctors to start processing their feelings, including small steps and finding a balance between feeling emotions and taking breaks.

6. Post-Traumatic Growth:
- Introduction to the concept of post-traumatic growth and how it differs from post-traumatic stress.
- How traumatic experiences can lead to positive psychological changes and personal growth.

7. Dual Process Model of Grief:
- Explanation of the dual process model which involves oscillation between loss-oriented and restoration-oriented activities.
- The importance of allowing oneself both to grieve and to take breaks from grieving.

Resources:
- Krista St. Germain’s Podcast: The Widowed Mom Podcast
- Krista St. Germain’s Website: Coaching with Krista for more information on grief coaching and resources.
- The Whole Physician’s Wellness 911 Program: www.thewholephysician.com for information on the Wellness 911 program to help demoralized doctors go from fried to fantastic.

Closing Thoughts:
The hosts thank Krista for her valuable insights and for helping to normalize conversations about grief. They emphasize the importance of talking about grief to improve the experience for those who are going through it.

Call to Action:
For more information about Wellness 911, visit The Whole Physician. Remember, you are whole, you are a gift to medicine, and the work you do matters.

Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.