What to Say — and Not Say — in Difficult Moments | UK Expert Discusses Palliative Care & Compassion

What do you say to someone who is suffering — and what should you avoid? In this episode of Behind the Blue, Dr. Abbie Latimer, assistant professor at the University of Kentucky College of Social Work, shares insights from her work in hospice and palliative care. Drawing from her experience supporting patients, families and care teams through serious illness, Dr. Latimer explores why well-meaning phrases like “stay positive” can sometimes create distance — and how presence, listening and honest connection can make a meaningful difference. Episode Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:00 Meet Dr. Abbie Latimer 04:30 Journey into hospice and palliative care 08:00 Hospice vs. palliative care explained 12:00 What we get wrong in difficult conversations 18:00 Why presence matters 25:00 Supporting patients, families and care teams This conversation offers practical insights for health care professionals, caregivers, students and anyone navigating difficult conversations. #PalliativeCare #HospiceCare #GriefSupport #Compassion #Empathy #ToxicPositivity #EndOfLifeCare #Healthcare #SocialWork #CaregiverSupport #BehindTheBlue #UniversityOfKentucky #CommunicationSkills #MentalHealth #SupportOthers