Practical Optimism for Cancer Thrivers: Dr. Sue Varma’s Mental Health Toolkit

The Space Between

What happens when a serious illness challenges your ability to be present for your loved ones, while also taking care of your own mental health?

Dr. Sue Varma, a psychiatrist, best-selling author, and expert in practical optimism, discusses how to navigate the emotional complexities of illness, family life, and self-care. Dr. Varma shares her personal story of caregiving while managing a demanding medical career and the lessons she’s learned along the way about resilience, self-compassion, and the power of optimism.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The practice of practical optimism: How being intentional about positivity can help you navigate life’s most difficult moments.
• Emotional resilience: Techniques for building mental toughness, especially when facing life-changing events.
• Parenting through adversity: How to balance your own health and your children's emotional needs during tough times.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(05:14) The impact of cancer on caregiving and burnout

(08:36) How Cognitive Behavioral Therapy helped Dr. Varma manage stress

(12:53) Building emotional resilience in children

(15:14) The Four Ms of Mental Health

(22:12) The role of self-compassion in managing guilt

(25:37) Oasis moments for parents seeking balance

(27:31) Managing fear and uncertainty in cancer treatment

(30:16) Dr. Varma's thoughts on optimism and mental health

Resources:

• Connect with Dr. Sue Varma on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sudeepta-varma-m-d-p-c-dfapa-8a48286/
• Connect with Dr. Sue Varma on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctorsuevarma/?hl=en
• Dr. Sue Varma’s official website: https://www.doctorsuevarma.com/
• Check out Dr. Sue Varma’s book Practical Optimism: https://www.doctorsuevarma.com/book/
• Connect with Amri on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amri-kibbler-71333b15/
• Connect with The Space Between on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespacebetween_cancer.family
• Connect with Amri on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amrikibbler/
• Amri’s official website: https://www.amrikibbler.com/
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