EL PASO, Texas (KVIA)-- Children of immigrants who are held in detention far longer than federal guidelines face serious and lasting mental and physical health consequences, according to recent research. Cardoso, who has more than 20 years of clinical and research experience working with children, said untreated mental health issues during childhood often carry consequences well into adulthood. “The research suggests that untreated mental health problems during childhood have long-term effects on both mental and physical health throughout the life cycle,” Cardoso said. “Children who don’t receive mental health treatment or lack protective factors often show more symptoms later in life.”Beyond mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression and PTSD, children subjected to prolonged detention may also experience physical health conditions, including metabolic issues, high blood pressure and obesity, Cardoso said. She added that chronic stress makes it difficult for children to regulate their bodies, increasing their likelihood of developing long-term health problems.