Childhood trauma leaves deep and lasting impact on developing brain

Study says early life events can affect immune function, cause psychiatric disorders

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Childhood adversity may have a profound connection with lifelong vulnerability causing psychiatric disorders and other brain consequences, according to a study.

The study showed that early life experiences become biologically embedded and create lasting changes in brain structure and immune function. "The immune system doesn't just fight infections -- it plays a crucial role in shaping our mental health throughout life," said Sara Poletti, senior researcher at IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele Milan, Italy.