Researchers from the University of California, Irvine, conducted a comprehensive review on early-life adversity, highlighting its widespread impact on more than half of children globally. They underscored its role as a significant risk factor for cognitive and mental health issues later in life. Published in Neuron, their study delved into the mechanisms through which childhood stress affects brain development, emphasizing the need for a deeper understanding to address these challenges effectively. Despite decades of research, fundamental questions remain, such as how adults perceive stress in infants and children. The study advocates for leveraging advanced research tools to innovate solutions for this critical mental health issue.