In this heartfelt episode of the Anxiety Society podcast, host Cali Werner dives into the complexities of grief with guest Megan Jarvis, a trauma-trained psychotherapist, podcast host and author. They discuss the interplay between grief and anxiety, the importance of learning to "live with loss," and practical tools for managing grief during the holiday season. Megan shares her personal journey with grief and explains how understanding the body's response to trauma can help us navigate profound loss.

Key Points:

[0:06] - Welcome to The Anxiety Society Podcast

The mission of the podcast and welcoming Megan Jarvis for an important discussion about grief.

[0:57] - Anxious Moments of the Week

Cali and Megan reflect on their anxiety triggers, from holiday chaos to public speaking mishaps, highlighting the universal challenges of managing mental health.

[8:27] - Megan's Journey into Grief Therapy

Megan shares her personal story of childhood trauma, how it shaped her anxiety, and her eventual path to becoming a trauma therapist.

[15:00] - The Intersection of Grief and Anxiety

Insightful conversation on how grief triggers anxiety, why we react as we do, and tools like EMDR that help regulate our responses.

[34:22] - Tips for Grieving During the Holidays

Megan introduces strategies like the "Triangle of Trust" and mindfulness techniques to stay present and manage grief in emotionally charged situations.

[47:06] - Redefining the New Normal

Megan challenges cultural norms around grief and shares her vision for a more educated, compassionate approach to handling loss.

Quotable Moments:

[4:57] "If you want to know the answer to anxiety, it’s being okay with good enough." — Megan Jarvis

[34:29] "Instead of avoiding pain, ask: how can I be present for whatever comes up?" — Megan Jarvis

[47:43] "Grief isn’t about letting go; it’s learning to live with the loss." — Megan Jarvis

Links Mentioned:

- Megan Jarvis’s Website: https://meghanriordanjarvis.com/

- Grief is My Side Hustle Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/grief-is-my-side-hustle/id1568936089

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4tKoHpy88JWZEhPz0gREkY

- Book: Can Anyone Tell Me? Essential Questions About Grief and Loss by Megan Jarvis

https://meghanriordanjarvis.com/

Grief is a universal experience that often intersects with anxiety, and this episode provides practical tools and validation for those navigating loss. As you listen, remember that there's no "right way" to grieve—it’s about showing up for yourself and others with compassion and understanding.

Stay connected with us: Subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on Instagram @TheAnxietySocietyPod. Together, we can transform the conversation around anxiety and grief.

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