Early life trauma (ELT) in childhood can be associated with problems in adulthood, including sleep disturbance, mental health difficulty, and immune system dysfunction. Trauma can lead to chronic sleep problems, which may in turn exacerbate mental health disorders like depression and anxiety. Furthermore, childhood trauma is associated with long-term changes in the central nervous system, increasing vulnerability to autoimmune diseases and chronic pain. These adverse effects are often mediated by alterations in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and circadian rhythms. The large dataset offered by the UK Biobank presents an opportunity to evaluate the interrelationships between ELT, sleep, mental health and immune system function because of the recent inclusion of a significant battery of sleep-related survey measures. In a three-year project, we will assess the influence of ELT on sleep, psychopathology and immune function in adulthood, as well as the contribution of a broad range of potential risk and protective factors. Using UK Biobank data we will consider the relationships between ELT, self-reported and objective measures of sleep, health and medical history (incl. mental health diagnoses), psychosocial and lifestyle factors, cognitive function, physical health (incl. symptom severity in covid-19 infection), and immune function. Analysing the relationship between childhood trauma and adult health outcomes can significantly impact public health. Understanding how early traumatic experiences affect sleep, mental health, and immune function in adulthood can inform prevention and intervention strategies. This knowledge can lead to the development of targeted mental health services, improved sleep hygiene programs, and enhanced support systems for those affected. By addressing these issues early, we can reduce the long-term health burden, improve quality of life, and potentially decrease healthcare costs. Such insights emphasize the importance of early intervention and holistic approaches to health and well-being.
