Session 2

Turning Toward Dissonance 

Being Present & Robust in Times of Fear

Ronald Epstein, MD, FAAHPM
Professor of Family Medicine, Psychiatry, Oncology, and Medicine; Director, Center for Communication and Disparities Research; Co-Director, Deans Teaching Fellowship; Co-Director, Mindful Practice Programs; University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry

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Zoom Webinar:

Healthcare professionals are on the frontlines facing coronavirus and racial injustice, and most of us are feeling more vulnerable and uncertain about the future. Many of us feel that our lives and the lives of our loved ones is on the line. Many of us don’t know what do to help ourselves and others face these challenges feeling robust, connected and effective. In this 1-hour Zoom Webinar, Dr Epstein will explore our common reactions to these extraordinary stressors, show how, by developing habits of attentiveness and curiosity when we and others are experiencing distress, we can become more connected to patients and colleagues, more compassionate and more effective as clinicians and leaders. He will propose some simple practices that can be used during the workday to promote presence, curiosity and attentiveness, and help us thrive amid chaos, fear and uncertainty.

 

Learning Objectives:
 

• Describe how people tend to respond to “mortality salience.”
   

• Demonstrate simple practices that can help health professionals and leaders feel more present, open and connected in challenging times.
   

• Describe benefits and challenges in creating a sense of community and solidarity.

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