1214. Self Identity and Finding Meaning Following Diagnosis

In this "Ask the Expert" episode titled, "Self Identity and
Finding Meaning Following Diagnosis," Krissy Dilger of SRNA spoke
with Susan Y. Wegener, LCSW, a licensed clinical social worker,
about coping with a chronic diagnosis and its emotional
adjustments, referencing Kübler-Ross’ stages of grief [00:03:45].
Susan discussed the importance of self identity transformation
post-diagnosis and the need for patience and self-compassion in
finding new ways to move forward [00:08:34]. The value of inner
strength, setting priorities, and support groups for reducing
isolation and fostering compassion was emphasized [00:15:20]. The
discussion concluded with a focus on post-traumatic growth,
highlighting greater life appreciation and mental flexibility as
key coping strategies [00:16:01].





Susan Y. Wegener, LCSW is a licensed clinical social worker who
maintains a private psychotherapy practice in Austin, TX. Her
clinical practice specializes in work with individuals coping
with chronic medical diagnoses. She completed her undergraduate
degree, in Psychology, from Skidmore College, Saratoga Springs
N.Y., 1993 and her graduate degree, in Social Work from Columbia
University, New York City in 1995. In addition to her private
practice, she has worked in multiple medical settings throughout
her career and helped to empower and support individuals from
diagnosis through the adjustment process. She became a Partner in
Care for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society in 2017 and is
passionate about her work with individuals diagnosed with MS and
various other neurological diagnoses. In her free time, she
enjoys singing in a local chorus, cooking, swimming, and spending
time with her family. Please see the following link to her
workbook “Hold on to Hope.”


https://www.amazon.com/Hold-Hope-Overview-Strategies-Chronic/dp/1512218715





00:00 Introduction to the Podcast


00:37 Meet the Expert: Susan Wagner


01:00 Coping with a Chronic Diagnosis


01:47 The Emotional Adjustment Process


05:36 Understanding Self Identity Post-Diagnosis


08:34 Dealing with Denial


10:39 Coping Strategies for Shifting Self Identity


14:08 Finding Meaning and Purpose


14:26 Exploring the Impact of Diagnosis


15:25 Reflecting on Values and Strengths


16:06 Coping Strategies for Finding Meaning


16:29 The Role of Relationships and Support Systems


18:05 Prioritizing Self-Care and Realistic Goals


20:04 Finding Meaning in Suffering


20:15 The Concept of Post-Traumatic Growth


24:52 The Importance of Stillness and Self-Compassion


28:31 Mental Flexibility and Creative Thinking


30:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts