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