🧠 Early-life adversity affects half the world's children, with lasting brain and mental health impacts. UC Irvine research reveals that unpredictable environments may be as damaging to developing brains as abuse and neglect. After decades of study, we're still learning how childhood stress shapes brains - but this offers new hope for interventions. "Understanding what kids perceive as stressful is key," says lead researcher Dr. Tallie Baram of the UC Irvine School of Medicine. This research is funded by nihgov and nimhgov #SpeakUpForScience