Similarly, reduced hippocampal volume in adults has previously been tied to both psychosis risk and early-life stress. “The novelty of our research is that it suggests that childhood neurodevelopment impaired by stress could be an early risk factor for future psychosis,” Damme said. Adverse childhood experiences (ACE) are defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as potentially traumatic events that adversely affect health and well-being. This highlights one unique pathway: adverse childhood events, smaller hippocampus and high stress levels.”“There are many pathways that increase the risk of psychosis. “What can be done to counteract this is to positively impact hippocampal volume via high levels of physical activity and good sleep hygiene,” she said.