In somewhat similar situations, I just focus a lot on what I'm going to do about it / solutions. So like for example, focusing the conversation on how I'm going to try a medication adjustment or something, and even the date on which I'll be seeing a/the pdoc. Or whatever. The idea is to make the other person feel like I've got it under control and I am going to handle it, to try to keep them from feeling like they need to swoop in and save me - which of course they can't do.