Can You Thrive in Crisis? Build Your Mental Grit with Dr. Sue Varma

Dr. Sue Varma, board-certified psychiatrist or psychiatrist and
Author of Practical Optimism, joins Dr. Stephanie in this episode
and together, they explore practical strategies for bolstering
mental fortitude, navigating emotions, and reclaiming control
over one's time and mental space.


Drawing from Dr. Varma's extensive experience, including her
groundbreaking work at the World Trade Center Mental Health
Program, they discuss techniques to combat overwhelm, embrace the
Joy of Missing Out (JOMO), and cultivate meaningful connections
through friendship.


Whether you're seeking tools to regulate emotions, alleviate
stress, or simply enhance your well-being, this episode promises
invaluable insights for all. Tune in and embark on a journey
toward resilience, empowerment, and practical optimism.


Episode Overview:
0:00 Intro/Teaser
1:15 Stress and Resilience
3:18 Practical Optimism: A Blend of Eastern and Western
Philosophy
6:20 Validating the Human Experience
11:27 Medication and Calming Techniques for Inflammation
19:35 The Power of Observing Emotional "Tells"
27:08 Creating Distance from Negative Thoughts Through Mindful
Observation
35:15 Reframing Cognitive Strategies for Self-Reflection
40:25 Finding Pleasure in Slowing Down and Appreciating the
Senses
43:54 Slowing Down and Savoring the Present Moment
48:22 The Complexity of Emotions and Communication
50:30 The Therapeutic Power of Crying and Communication
54:20 Conflict Resolution: Resolving Conflicts Like Adults
58:03 Example of a Couple's Damaging Behavior in a Three-Legged
Race
1:01:07 Communication Differences Between Men and Women
1:04:14 The Power of Feeling Supported and the Danger of
Schadenfreude
1:09:54 The Importance of Relying on Others and Offering
Help
1:13:28 The Importance of Choices, Work, and Sacrifices
1:20:12 Practical Optimism: The Art, Science, and Practice of
Well-being


Bio:


Dr. Sue Varma is a board-certified psychiatrist who was the first
medical director and attending psychiatrist at the World Trade
Center Mental Health Program. She is also the go-to for all of
the national morning shows on various topics related to mental
health. Her first book examines how some people survive, even
thrive, despite profound challenge, and how we can all optimize
the things we have control over, while buffering ourselves from
stress.


Website: https://www.doctorsuevarma.com/
Practical Optimism book: https://www.doctorsuevarma.com/book/


Resources mentioned:
It’s Not About the Nail -
https://youtu.be/-4EDhdAHrOg?si=9zOcR3GR4E-9Ws5c


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