Trauma- & Stressor-Related Disorders

At some point in life, all of us will encounter experiences that leave us shaken, distressed, or overwhelmed. Sometimes it is something we directly lived through, while other times it may be something painful we witnessed. 

For most, these feelings of shock and upset gradually fade. But for others, the emotional weight feels impossible to manage, lingering for years and deeply impacting physical health, mental well-being, relationships, and daily life. 

If you find yourself struggling with memories, emotions, or stress that never seems to go away, please know—you are not alone, and help is available. Healing is possible with the proper care and support. 

What Exactly Is Trauma?

Trauma refers to the lasting emotional response that follows a deeply distressing or frightening experience. It can occur in childhood or adulthood and may leave behind long-term effects that alter how a person thinks, feels, and relates to others.

 Trauma can arise from a range of experiences—physical or sexual abuse, neglect, exposure to violence, harassment, discrimination, bullying, or surviving an accident or natural disaster. In some cases, the painful memories stay buried for years, only to resurface later in life, sometimes linked to addiction, anxiety, or other emotional struggles.

Every individual’s response to trauma is unique. Feelings of abandonment, humiliation, rejection, fear, or shame are common, but they may present in very different ways from person to person. What is universal, however, is that trauma deserves compassionate understanding and professional treatment. 

What About Stressors? 

Stressors are the difficult life events or ongoing pressures that overwhelm a person’s ability to cope. Unlike trauma, which is often tied to a specific, intense event, stressors can build up gradually and lead to equally damaging effects on the mind and body. Examples include losing a job, divorce, financial strain, chronic illness, or caring for a loved one with significant health needs. Over time, these stressors can cause physical symptoms (such as insomnia, headaches, or fatigue) and emotional struggles (such as irritability, hopelessness, or withdrawal). When left unaddressed, stressors can worsen existing mental health issues or trigger new ones, including anxiety, depression, and addiction.

Signs to Watch For
● Withdrawal from friends and family
● Difficulty sleeping or frequent nightmares
● Constant tension or heightened stress levels
● Shock, denial, or disbelief after an event
● Problems with focus and concentration
● Feelings of guilt, shame, or self-blame
● Emotional numbness or detachment. 

At the Brain and Mind Healing Center, Dr. Kotbi—a quintuple board-certified physician with over two decades of experience—leads a compassionate team dedicated to helping individuals process trauma and manage stressors. As a distinguished educator and clinician, Dr. Kotbi provides a comprehensive care approach, combining expert diagnostic skills with personalized treatment planning for patients with complex co-morbidities. His expertise spans psychiatric, neurological, medical, and addiction disorders, allowing for compassionate and holistic care. This approach includes personalized evaluations, ongoing medication management, and second-opinion consultations, with collaborative behavioral support from licensed therapists when necessary.