Harnessing Fear: The Science of Trauma and Resilience w/ Dr. Arash Javanbakht
Dr. Arash Javanbakht, a leading psychiatrist, neuroscientist, and founding director of the Stress, Trauma, and Anxiety Research Clinic (STARC) at Wayne State University School of Medicine, joins Dr. Chris Meek on this installment of Next Steps Forward. A nationally recognized expert in anxiety, trauma, and PTSD, Dr. Javanbakht shares insights from his extensive work treating civilians, refugees, and first responders. The conversation explores the complex science behind fear and resilience, from biological and psychological factors to the role of environment and lived experience in shaping how individuals respond to trauma.
Dr. Javanbakht also discusses innovative approaches being used at STARC, including the integration of art, movement, mindfulness, and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and telemedicine to support healing and recovery. Drawing from his acclaimed book Afraid: Understanding the Purpose of Fear, and Harnessing the Power of Anxiety, he offers a powerful perspective on how fear can be understood, not just as a challenge, but as a tool for growth. This episode is a compelling look at the future of trauma treatment and a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there are pathways to resilience, healing, and forward progress.
About Dr. Arash Javanbakht: Arash Javanbakht, M.D., is a psychiatrist and neuroscientist, founding director of the Stress, Trauma, and Anxiety Research Clinic (STARC) at Wayne State University School of Medicine. He is nationally known for his clinical and research work on anxiety, trauma, and PTSD. He is heavily involved in treatment of civilians, refugees, and first responders with PTSD. Dr Javanbakht researches the biological, psychological, and factors of risk and resilience among refugee children and adults. This work is funded by an NICHD R01 award and examines epigenetic, autonomic, parenting, and environmental elements of trauma impact. STARC also uses art, dance and movement, and yoga and mindfulness in helping refugee families overcome stress.
Dr. Javanbakht's work in treatment and research of trauma among first responders is funded by the State of Michigan. STARC is also a national leader in utilization of patented artificial intelligence and augmented reality and telemedicine technologies for treatment for anxiety disorders and PTSD. This work is funded by the State of Michigan, and the DoD. Dr. Javanbakht is recipient of the Anxiety and Depression Association of America Distinguished Member Award, The Society for Biological Psychiatry Humanitarian Award, and International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies Distinguished Member Award.
Dr. Javanbakht's work has been featured on CNN, Aljazeera, NPR, Scientific American, Washington Post, Smithsonian, PBS, Science, Lancet, American Psychiatric Association, Anxiety and Depression Association of America, American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Society of Biological Psychiatry, and tens of other media outlets. He is the author of the book “Afraid: Understanding the Purpose of Fear, and Harnessing the Power of Anxiety”.