How adolescent trauma affects sleep and increases mental illness risk in adults
Adolescent trauma produces enduring disruptions in sleep architecture that lead to increased risk for adult mental illness
['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND BALTIMORE · NIH-10730872
This study looks at how experiencing trauma as a child can affect sleep patterns and increase the chances of mental health issues later in life, especially during the teenage years, to help us understand the connection between sleep and emotional well-being.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND BALTIMORE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10730872 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the long-term effects of childhood trauma on sleep patterns and how these disruptions may lead to a higher risk of developing mental health disorders in adulthood. By examining the relationship between sleep architecture and psychiatric illnesses, the study aims to understand how sleep disturbances, particularly during adolescence, can influence emotional and cognitive health later in life. The research employs advanced methodologies to analyze sleep patterns and their connection to mental health outcomes, focusing on the role of specific brain regions involved in sleep regulation.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12-20 who have experienced trauma and may be at risk for developing mental health issues.
Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced trauma or who are outside the adolescent age range may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment strategies for individuals at risk of mental illness due to early trauma.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that addressing sleep disturbances can significantly improve mental health outcomes, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND BALTIMORE — BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ELMER, GREGORY I — UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND BALTIMORE
- Study coordinator: ELMER, GREGORY I
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions: Mental disorders, Mental health disorders, Psychiatric Disease, Psychiatric Disorder