Ambivalence #FeelingsMatter

In this episode of #FeelingsMatter, hosts Michelle Stinson Ross, Tina Schweiger, and Heather Hampton explore the emotion of ambivalence - feeling two opposite feelings or attitudes at the same time, or simply feeling indecisive. The conversation distinguishes ambivalence from indifference and examines how this emotion can manifest both as a symptom of depression and as decision fatigue. The hosts discuss how ambivalence can put people on the precipice of isolation and share strategies for moving through this challenging emotional state.

Episode Highlights:

• Heather describes experiencing ambivalence in two ways: as part of depression where she simply doesn't care about outcomes, and more commonly through decision fatigue when overwhelmed by daily responsibilities and unable to make even simple choices like where to eat dinner
• Michelle connects ambivalence to the "mental load of caregiving" that drives people to a point where they refuse to make any more decisions, noting there's a difference between "can't" and "won't" make decisions, with the latter tinged with irritation
• Tina admits she struggles with holding space for people experiencing ambivalence because indecision is a pet peeve for her, honestly sharing that she might not be the right person to bring ambivalence to
• The hosts discuss hope as the recommended mindset for ambivalence, with Tina suggesting that sometimes you can "trick your way out" of the emotional space by envisioning a positive future rather than trying to think your way out
• Michelle shares the personal significance of her Phoenix tattoo as a symbol of hope and resilience, explaining how it reminds her that she has consistently risen from challenging situations and can do so again, providing evidence that "you can" rather than "you can't" get through difficult times

Podcast theme music by Dubush Miaw from Pixabay

This episode of the #FeelingsMatter Podcast was recorded and produced at MSR Studios in Saint Paul, MN.Copyright 2025, all rights reserved. No reproduction, excerpting, or other use without written permission.

This episode is sponsored by 
FeelWise - bridging the gap between reflection and resilience, offering practical tools to help people overcome obstacles, embrace change, and grow stronger emotionally. https://www.feel-wise.com/

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