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Dr. Deepika Chopra founded Things Are Looking Up, a card deck to elevate mindset and increase happiness; PHOTO BY NICO APARACIO
During times of crisis, optimism is often the last thing we feel—and that’s okay. This past January, Los Angeles faced multiple crises, leaving many with deep grief, anger and fear. Though the fires have been contained and the community is slowly returning to “normal,” those uneasy emotions may still linger.
Dr. Deepika Chopra, known as the Optimism Doctor, is a behavioral scientist and professional health psychologist who specializes in providing science-based tools to increase resiliency and hope. In response to the devastation, she quickly adapted her practice to better serve Angelenos in their healing.
“I have long offered remote virtual sessions, but as soon as we were evacuated, I felt the helplessness so many were experiencing,” Chopra shares. “I immediately began offering free, short-form crisis sessions focused on evidence-based tools and exercises designed to calm the nervous system.” These sessions were specifically created to help manage shock, grief and uncertainty.
Having been displaced alongside her family, Chopra witnessed firsthand the lasting emotional toll of the wildfires. Yet amid the devastation, she found herself inspired by the resilience of the community—from the firefighter’s heroism to the outpouring of support through donation drives and relief efforts. “During times of crisis, one of the most powerful things we can do is look for the helpers—the people stepping up to support those in need,” she says.
“DURING TIMES OF CRISIS, ONE OF THE MOST POWERFUL THINGS WE CAN DO IS LOOK FOR THE HELPERS—THE PEOPLE STEPPING UP TO SUPPORT THOSE IN NEED.” –DR. DEEPIKA CHOPRA
While seeking help is crucial to recovery, stepping into the role of a helper can also have a substantial impact on mental health. “Research consistently shows that helping others in times of crisis is a powerful antidote to distress,” notes Chopra. For her, offering support felt both instinctive and necessary.
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The Optimism Doctor—Dr. Deepika Chopra—offers therapy sessions rooted in resilience and hope; PHOTO BY NICO APARACIO
Even after the fires had subsided, she continued providing pro-bono services, expanding her offerings to include long-form therapy sessions centered on perseverance and optimism. “Optimism in crisis doesn’t mean ignoring pain,” she explains. “But rather navigating it in a way that allows for healing, growth and collective strength.”
“If you can’t find solutions or silver linings just yet, that’s okay—more than okay. It’s normal,” she emphasizes. “It is essential to process these emotions rather than suppressing them with toxic positivity or dismissive statements from others or ourselves. Honoring the pain, loss and devastation so many are feeling is a necessary part of healing.”
Dr. Deepika Chopra shares a few strategies for maintaining optimism in uncertain times.
1. Set Small, Actionable Goals
During times of devastation like the L.A. fires, much of our struggle comes from feeling out of control. Focusing on what is within your control—through small, actionable steps—can help reduce feelings of helplessness. Setting even minor goals fosters a sense of progress and hope.
2. Find Meaning In Adversity
Finding meaning in adversity is another powerful way to build resilience. While this may not be possible for everyone right now, simply staying open and curious about the idea can be helpful in the long run.
3. Stay Social
Social connection is crucial. Reaching out for help, staying in close contact with loved ones or even just having someone to vent to can provide emotional relief. Research shows that those who engage in community support experience greater well-being.
4. Practice Gratitude
Practicing gratitude—even in small ways—has been shown to boost psychological well-being. Try to acknowledge moments of appreciation, no matter how small they may seem.
5. Show Yourself Grace
Most importantly, show yourself grace. Self-compassion helps prevent negative emotions from spiraling into helplessness.
Photography by: Nico Aparacio
