How childhood hardships affect teen mental health

Childhood socioeconomic disadvantage, cumulative Adverse Childhood Experiences, and adolescent depression and anxiety symptoms

NIH-funded research University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-10881659

This study looks at how growing up in tough financial situations and facing difficult experiences can affect mental health in teenagers, especially in terms of depression and anxiety, to help find better ways to support their well-being.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-10881659 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the combined effects of childhood socioeconomic disadvantage and cumulative Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) on mental health symptoms in adolescents. By examining how these factors interact, the study aims to clarify their roles in contributing to depression and anxiety among youth. The research will involve collecting and analyzing data from various sources to better understand these complex relationships, ultimately informing prevention strategies for improving adolescent mental health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12 to 20 who have experienced socioeconomic disadvantage or multiple adverse childhood experiences.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced significant socioeconomic disadvantage or adverse childhood experiences may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention strategies for mental health issues in adolescents facing socioeconomic and emotional challenges.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the interplay between socioeconomic factors and childhood adversity can significantly impact mental health outcomes, suggesting that this approach is promising.

Where this research is happening

Ann Arbor, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.