Ask the Experts | Dr. Sue Varma | IG Live Q&A
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. Notably, she was recognized as one of the world’s top five leading health experts by Global Citizen for her contributions during the pandemic.
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!
Questions answered:
Can you speak to how our general mindset—whether we lean more toward optimism or pessimism—shapes the way we show up in relationships? How does that impact how we interpret our partner’s behaviour, or how generously we’re able to see the people closest to us?
How can I stay optimistic about love when I’ve been hurt or disappointed in past relationships?
What’s the difference between toxic positivity and practical optimism?
How can I support a partner or loved one who struggles to see the bright side without dismissing their feelings?
What are some signs I’m stuck in a negativity bias, and how do I begin to shift out of it?
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone who feels stuck and doesn’t know where to begin?