What Childhood Trauma Leaves Behind

Childhood trauma can leave lasting marks on the brain, body, and sense of safety—but it does not define a person’s future. 

In this episode of Road to Resilience, host Stephen Calabria speaks with Frank W. Putnam, MD, one of the country’s leading researchers on childhood trauma and maltreatment. Drawing on decades of clinical work and a landmark longitudinal study that followed abused girls from childhood into adulthood, Dr. Putnam explains how early maltreatment can shape mental health, physical health, development, and even biological aging. 

But the conversation is also about what helps people heal. Dr. Putnam discusses why safety is the foundation of recovery, how supportive relationships can change a child’s trajectory, and why resilience often begins with having options, stability, and someone who truly listens. 

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Check out more episodes of Road to Resilience —as well as guest pictures, transcripts, and more— on the Mount Sinai website.

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Visit https://www.mountsinai.org/clinical-trials to see if you're eligible to enroll in a clinical trial with the Mount Sinai Health System. Check out more episodes of Road to Resilience—as well as guest pictures, transcripts, and more—on the Mount Sinai website.