057: Chronic Illness and Grief with Angela Dean (Part 1)

Description: In this two-part series, Dr. Z sits down with psychologist Dr. Angela Dean for a powerful, candid conversation about chronic illness and its impact on mental health, relationships, identity, and grief. Drawing from their personal and professional experiences, they unpack the uncertainty, systemic barriers, and invisible losses that come with chronic conditions — as well as the deeply emotional work of advocating for yourself (or someone you love) in a complex and often disconnected medical system. Whether you’re living with a chronic illness, supporting someone who is, or working in the healthcare or mental health space, this conversation offers a validating look into the human side of chronic care. Stay tuned for part 2 dropping 11/25. Chapters  0:00 – Welcome & Intro to the Episode  1:25 – Meet Dr. Angela Dean  4:10 – From Set Design to Psychology  7:00 – Why Chronic Illness & Grief Matter  10:00 – Defining Chronic vs. Terminal Illness  12:45 – The Weight of Medical Uncertainty  17:20 – The Grief of Not Knowing  20:45 – Advocacy, Coordination, & the Healthcare Maze  24:30 – The Emotional Toll of Managing Chronic Illness  27:15 – Identity and Illness: “I have” vs. “I am”  33:00 – Shifting Language & Reclaiming Identity  35:30 – Medication Compliance & Psychological Resistance  41:00 – The Cost of Care: Financial Strain & Systemic Barriers  44:15 – Secondary Losses (Relationships, Intimacy, Self-Worth)  51:30 – Wrap Up & What’s Coming in Part 2  Be sure to subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss a conversation.  If this episode resonates, please leave a review or share with someone who might need it.