Takeaway
Patients exhibiting "Grinch-like" behaviors may be masking underlying trauma and vulnerability. Try an empathetic "Cindy Lou" approach to foster trust and facilitate healing.
Connecting with Patients | December 23, 2024 | 1 min read
By Heather Agee, MD, Johns Hopkins Medicine
“You’re a mean one, Mr. Grinch . . .”
Or so the song goes. But is that all he is? I recently watched the movie again with my kids—the 2018 cartoon version—and my view of the Grinch is forever changed.
It’s clear that the Grinch is someone with a history of emotional trauma who needs to heal. Of course, seeing others happy or hearing singing doesn’t make him better, and seems to make him feel worse. And when Cindy Lou comes to his door, he doesn’t know if he should trust her kindness.
As a primary care doctor, I have the honor of knowing many people with troubled or difficult life stories. Many have inspiring resilience. There are just as many whose hidden emotional scars become physical ailments such as obesity, chronic physical pain, substance abuse, hypertension, and depression. These people can be difficult—abrasive, frustrating, and may drain our energy, just as the Grinch stole the Whoville decorations and gifts. But when their trust grows in us, they give back all that energy and more.
The Grinch is not “The foul one, the nasty, wasty skunk.” The Grinch is a person whose life experience built unhealthy defenses that have left him alone in life. Healthcare is a place where lonely people find an invite in, or at least don’t feel they can be turned away. They need us to be the best Cindy Lou we can.
Let’s all remember the Cindy Lou in us this holiday season by:
1. Being curious when a patient is draining our energy.
2. Reacting to negativity with empathy.
3. Inviting everyone to not feel as alone.
This piece expresses the views solely of the author. It does not necessarily represent the views of any organization, including Johns Hopkins Medicine.