These events, ranging from witnessing domestic violence to experiencing sexual assault or the death of a loved one, often occur shockingly early in life and leave lasting marks on mental and physical health. For its National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing, the Australian Bureau of Statistics selected a random, representative sample of Australians across the country to participate in interviews. Early experiences of trauma can have a particularly damaging impact because the body and brain are developing rapidly and are especially responsive to the environment.
Author: Lucinda Grummitt, Postdoctoral Research Fellow, The Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, University of Sydney
Published at: 2025-11-17 22:09:56
Still want to read the full version? Full article
