How early life stress affects depression in adolescents

Psychobiological Mechanisms Underlying the Association Between Early Life Stress and Depression Across Adolescence

['FUNDING_R37'] · STANFORD UNIVERSITY · NIH-11077216

This study is looking at how stress in childhood affects the mental health of kids aged 9 to 13 as they grow up, with the hope of finding ways to prevent depression and other emotional challenges in young people.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R37']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSTANFORD UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (STANFORD, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11077216 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of early life stress on the development of depression and other psychological issues in adolescents. By following a group of 220 children aged 9 to 13 over several years, the study examines how exposure to stress influences their emotional and behavioral health as they grow into young adults. Participants undergo various assessments, including psychological evaluations and biological measurements, to understand the long-term effects of early adversity on mental health. The goal is to identify patterns that could help in preventing depression and related conditions in youth.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 9 to 13 who have experienced significant early life stress.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced early life stress or are outside the age range of 9 to 13 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prevention and treatment strategies for depression and other mental health issues in adolescents.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the effects of early life stress on mental health, indicating that this approach is grounded in established findings.

Where this research is happening

STANFORD, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.