Nelba Márquez-Greene’s family experienced a high-profile trauma when her daughter, Ana, was killed at Sandy Hook Elementary School. But before that, she understood trauma as a mental health professional. She says we need to do a better job at recognizing and responding when children need help. The last in a series of four.

Science suggests that having a secure relationship with a caregiver can help protect a child’s brain and body from the effects of adversity. A Connecticut program for very young children who have experienced trauma or other challenges has gotten results by focusing on that relationship – and the things that can interfere, including depression, family violence and a parent’s own history of trauma. The second article in a four-part series.

Research has linked significant adversity in childhood to a wide range of disorders and diseases, mental and physical. Can understanding this make a profound change in the way we prevent illness? The first of four in a series.

If you or someone you know needs help, we’ve compiled a list of services for everything from emergency psychiatric services to child mental health information.

Studies indicate that most children will be exposed to at least one potentially traumatic event by the time they’re 18. Many of them won’t develop symptoms or require treatment. But many who need help don’t get it, experts say. Here are some things to know about trauma and how to address it.

Research indicates that childhood trauma and other forms of significant adversity are common – and they’re linked to a wide range of mental and physical health problems, including depression, heart disease and cancer. But studies also suggest that having a strong bond with a supportive caregiver can help to protect a child from the physiological effects of significant adversity. Starting next week, The Mirror will explore the implications in a four-part series that you won’t want to miss.