The psychological impact of a life-limiting diagnosis

How do you cope with the shock of a terminal or life-limiting diagnosis?  In this episode of Dust Disease Diaries, James O’Loghlin speaks with psychiatrist and mental health expert Professor Ian Hickie about the psychological impact of a dust disease diagnosis.  As co-hosts of the Minding Your Mind podcast that delves into all aspects of mental health, Ian and James are used to tackling the tough topics.  In this conversation they focus on the psychological and emotional impact on people who have received the shocking diagnosis of mesothelioma or silicosis.  They discuss common reactions in the early days after diagnosis - when things can feel surreal - and why numbness, denial, anger and grief often arrive in waves. They explain why the practical “to-do list” can kick in before emotions catch up, and share ways to move toward acceptance without minimising what has happened. The conversation also covers making space for anger without getting stuck there, and using small daily anchors (daylight, sleep routines and gentle activity) to protect mental health when life is turned upside down.James and Ian share practical strategies for managing overwhelm, pain, and difficult conversations with partners, family, children and friends. This episode offers grounded, compassionate advice for anyone navigating the shock of diagnosis.  Professor Ian Hickie is a psychiatrist and Co-Director of Health and Policy at the University of Sydney’s Brain and Mind Centre. He is one of Australia’s leading advocates for, and commentators on, mental health.Read more about Professor Hickie here.Ian Hickie and James O’Loghlin explore mental health topics in their Minding Your Mind podcast.They have also co-authored several books on mental health. Find out more here.To find out more about ADDRI, visit here. Thank you to our podcast interviewer and host, James O’Loghlin, and producer Rod Morri from Sydney Podcast Studios.If you have any questions or comments, please email [email protected]