Why can two people experience the same traumatic event but have completely different responses? The answer isn’t simply mental toughness or resilience. It’s also about the health of the brain they bring into the experience. After studying hundreds of thousands of brain scans, I’ve come to appreciate how much our brain health can influence the way we respond to life’s challenges. Previous emotional trauma, head injuries, chronic stress, environmental exposures, and underlying mental health conditions can all affect brain function and potentially make it harder to cope with additional stress. But I want to be clear: Struggling after trauma is not a sign of weakness. Even people with otherwise healthy brains can experience lasting effects from traumatic events. This is why I believe taking care of your brain should be a daily priority, not something you only think about when something goes wrong. The good news? The brain can change. With the right support, healthy habits, and approp...