Beyond Survival: The Neuroscience of Trauma & Recovery | Varsha Sudharshan | TEDxGeorgiaStateU
In Beyond Survival: The Neuroscience of Trauma and Recovery, Varsha Sudharshan unpacks how trauma reshapes the brain—and how healing is not just possible, but deeply scientific. Blending research from neuroscience with her advocacy for survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence, she challenges common misconceptions about trauma and recovery. Varsha’s talk reveals how understanding the brain’s adaptability can help survivors rebuild their sense of safety, connection, and self, showing that recovery is both a biological and human triumph. Varsha is a third-year neuroscience major, researcher, and Presidential
Scholar at Georgia State University. Her research focuses on the effects of opioids during pregnancy and how morphine impacts social development. Beyond the lab, she is a passionate advocate for survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence, working with organizations such as Survivors Brunch, Table on Delk, and GSU’s Student Victim Association to create safe spaces and resources for healing. In her TEDx talk, she explores how trauma can rewire the brain, dismantles societal myths, and highlights how science and
community support can help survivors rebuild and reclaim their lives. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
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