Mental Health Myths
Debunking and dispelling mental health myths. MYTH: MENTAL ILLNESS IS CAUSED BY A PERSONAL WEAKNESS Have you heard this one before? I have! Mental illness has NOTHING to do with being lazy or being weak. It is not a character flaw. Mental disorders are brought about by the interactions of different biological, psychological and social…
The Pandemic: Q&A and Tips
I was asked some questions, so I wanted to share my thoughts. WHY HAS THE PANDEMIC MADE IT MORE DIFFICULT WITH CHILDREN WHO HAVE ADHD? Children with ADHD typically thrive with routine and predictable structure, which allows for them to understand and be aware of their daily expectations in a consistent manner. With this pandemic…
Black Lives Matter
“We may have different religions, different languages, different colored skin, but we all belong to one human race.” – Kofi Anan I have spent the majority of this week being aware, listening, helping, treating, educating, understanding, and reflecting. Reflecting about diversity, inclusivity, adversity, access, voice, and purpose. For as long as I can remember, I’ve…
PTSD Awareness Day
Let’s bring awareness to PTSD on this day. PTSD Awareness Day is observed every year on June 27th to raise awareness and understanding of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. The date was chosen in tribute to the date of birth of a North Dakota National Guard member who suffered from PTSD and who sadly took his own…
Men’s Health Week
It’s men’s health week! Let’s talk about mental health. On this eve of Father’s Day, it seems appropriate to highlight some men’s mental health statistics about depression. According to the National Institute of Mental Health and Mental Health America, over 6,000,000 males struggle with depression, and the actual number could be even higher as male…
Shivani Chopra, MD
Dr. Shivani Chopra is a psychiatrist who specializes in child, adolescent, adult, and forensic psychiatry. She is triple board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in general adult psychiatry, child and adolescent psychiatry, and forensic psychiatry. Dr. Chopra provides treatment for a wide range of complex mental health issues in children, adolescents, and…
Today I Choose to Live With…
Many times, we can choose with what emotion we live. How do you choose to live today? ENDURANCE. One of my biggest tests of endurance has come from my training to be a physician. Did you know that to be a doctor in the United States, an individual has to complete an undergraduate education, medical…
COVID-19 Self Care Tips
It is so important to prioritize self care always, but especially during this pandemic. BELLY BREATHING. Belly breathing is a great exercise that both children and adults can practice to feel calm. Did you know that this type of breathing can actually reduce heart rate to trigger a relaxation response? Here’s what to do: sit…
Congratulations, Class of 2020!
A word of advice to the graduating class of 2020. Hi everyone! I’m a bit late to this campaign, but still wanted to share my thoughts. Congratulations to the class of 2020! You are graduating during such a unique time in medicine, and have the potential to make a very meaningful impact. Things I wish…
Welcome to the Blog!
Here’s a little bit about me: My name is Shivani Chopra and I am a board-certified child, adolescent, adult, and forensic psychiatrist. In 2013, I founded the Premier Mind Institute, a psychiatry and psychotherapy mental health center in Newport Beach, CA. I live in Southern California with my husband and son. My path of education…
Shivani Chopra, MD 