Grief, Healing, and Mental Health Strategies for Chronic Illness with Natasha Trujillo, PhD (Ep 107)

In this episode of the Bendy Bodies podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein interviews Dr. Natasha Trujillo, a licensed sports psychologist, about grief and the psychological impact of chronic illness. Dr. Trujillo discusses how grief can arise from any significant loss, such as chronic illness or loss of identity, and emphasizes that understanding and processing this grief is crucial for healing. She outlines strategies for dealing with grief, including developing self-compassion, being present, setting intentions, and questioning automatic negative thoughts. The conversation also touches on trauma and its impact on mental health, providing suggestions for how patients can navigate these challenges. Dr. Trujillo stresses that acceptance is recognizing reality while striving for personal growth, and provides practical tips for patients dealing with chronic illnesses and associated psychological struggles.