When we speak about longevity, we often default to themes of physical health and biology: genes, diet, exercise, sleep. However, longevity conversations are often missing the psychological perspective.

When discussing longevity, it is important to consider that it is not only about living longer, but also about living well. The quality of our experiences and the strength of our relationships throughout life are equally important aspects of longevity.

In my private practice work, I increasingly encounter midlife professionals who are not suffering from failure, but from success without meaning.

Many have achieved the milestones they once pursued, including leadership positions, financial stability, professional recognition, and organizational authority. Yet beneath these accomplishments, a question, or even a confusion, may begin to emerge: 

“What kind of person do I want to become now?”

Many may feel helpless and confused how to support their family members. Reflecting from the psychological therapy framework called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) perspective, the following ideas are offered here as a reassurance: there is no “right” way for children and teenagers to respond to a frightening event. What matters most is how safe and understood they feel in the days and weeks that follow.

Attending the EAPC 19th World Palliative Care Congress in Helsinki was an inspiring opportunity to engage with international leaders shaping the future of palliative and end-of-life care. As a Counselling Psychologist, I presented research exploring Palliative Care Physicians’ grief experiences in hospice settings, highlighting the importance of recognising the phenomenon of professional grief that has been an overlooked domain in the wellbeing of clinicians.

As a Counselling Psychologist engaging in the field of professional grief, attending the European Grief Conference (EGC) 2024, held at the Croke Park Conference Centre in Dublin, November 11th-13th 2024, was both inspiring and deeply meaningful. Building on the momentum of the inaugural EGC in Copenhagen in 2022, the Dublin gathering demonstrated how grief work continues to evolve across Europe, fostering cross‑disciplinary dialogue, shared research, and compassionate practice.

As a Counselling Psychologist with an interest in medical education and clinician wellbeing, the summit provided a rich convergence of front-line reflections, evidence-led research and practical workshops focusing on how health professionals’ experiences, process, and shining light on the mental health crisis among medical doctors.