E19 - Dr. Sue Varma, MD, PC, DFAPA | Transform Your Life with Practical Optimism & Intrinsic Self Worth

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With so much struggle and conflict in our modern world, many of us find it difficult to hold a positive perspective. In this conversation we are joined by distinguished psychiatrist and cognitive behavioral therapist Dr. Sue Varma, to discuss practical optimism: where the logic of pessimism meets the hopeful thinking of optimism. She discusses the tools and practices essential for cultivating a powerful, positive mindset and how to shape your life around this idea. She discusses the lessons of modern day motherhood, transforming parent/child dynamics, and unlocking an intrinsic self worth.

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0:00 Intro 

2:29 The Reality of Practical Optimism

5:41 Self-Assessment for Optimists/ Pessimists 

10:06 Value of Exercise & Healthy Habits

20:52 Intrinsic Self Worth 

31:08 Transcending the Challenges of Parent/Kid Dynamics

39:00 Modern Motherhood & Fatherhood

47:37 Conclusion 

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Dr. Sue Varma, MD, PC, DFAPA, is a distinguished psychiatrist and cognitive behavioral therapist based in New York City. With over two decades of private practice experience, Dr. Varma has made significant contributions to the field of mental health. Notably, she served as the pioneering medical director and psychiatrist for the esteemed 9/11 mental health program at NYU. Alongside her clinical work, Dr. Varma holds the position of Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at New York University (NYU) Langone Health. Her accomplishments have been recognized by the American Psychiatric Association (APA), where she was honored as a Distinguished Fellow, the highest honor bestowed upon its members. 

Dr. Varma has garnered national acclaim as a sought-after medical commentator, appearing on major news programs and networks. Her expertise has been instrumental in guiding the public through various mental health challenges, from trauma and resilience to stress management and relationship issues. Dr. Varma can frequently be seen discussing breaking news on the morning shows including the Today Show, CBS Mornings and GMA, as well as prime time specials and news documentaries. In addition to her media contributions, Dr. Varma is a captivating speaker, engaging diverse audiences with her messages of inspiration, compassion, and hope. From C- suite executives to healthcare professionals, educators, and the general public, she imparts valuable knowledge on topics such as self-compassion, psychological safety, work-life balance, and women’s mental health. 

Throughout her career, Dr. Varma has received numerous prestigious awards for her groundbreaking work in mental health education and advocacy: two Sharecare Emmy awards (including an inaugural Sharecare Emmy), the Ivan Goldberg Award for Outstanding Service and a Mayoral Proclamation.

Dr. Varma’s integrative approach to mental health, encompassing the 4 Ms of mental health, empowers individuals to boost their mood, mastery, and sense of meaning in life. Dr. Varma’s forthcoming book, “Practical Optimism: The Art, Science and Practice of Exceptional Wellbeing” (Penguin Random House, 2/2024), anticipated worldwide with multiple translations, offers valuable insights into promoting optimal mental health and wellness. She believes that physicians have a duty to not only take their patients from a state of dysfunction to function, but also from functional to optimal. Dr. Varma is an avid traveler and has visited fifty countries over five continents and counting!

Connect with Dr. Varma on social media @doctorsuevarma IG/Twitter/LinkedIn/FB and explore her selected media interviews at https://www.doctorsuevarma.com/

Pre-order her transformative book: https://www.doctorsuevarma.co