This is that delicious moment when you get to experience the joy of seeing them grow beyond what their current challenge is:
when I hung up had a little smile of satisfaction on my face. I was happy she was happy
Many people do fear change. From my observations, this is part of the human make up. Change brings the unknown, uncertainty, and no solid ground to hold on to. That there is some sort of solid ground, or something to hold on to is an illusion, since all of life is in a constant state of movement and change.
Regarding my personal experience around dispirited others, that's been a journey of my own to learn how to respond in such situations. It meant a great deal of self-exploration, trying many things, evaluating, and shifting again to further my growth.
In the process, I've noticed that, without exception, people want to be seen, heard, and acknowledged. Another aspect is the need for a sounding board to bounce things off of so that they can be seen clearly. It's very hard to see what one is going through, how to work with it, if it is not outwardly expressed. One of the easiest ways to express that is to share with another person who is able to provide that support, encouragement, and who is able to be present with pain and suffering. I'd say you've obviously done that with this woman, who is no longer dispirited. That, is a joyous experience for both of you.
On a personal note, I was enjoying our discussion yesterday and thinking what I might learn out of that moment. Thank you for including comments I made in your post. I am touched, as I always am, when someone finds value in what I've expressed. Thank you for that and also adding me as a beneficiary on this post, something that never crossed my mind, lol.
RE: The dispirited one