Osmosis video - Toxic stress: Information for patients and families (The Primary School)

Toxic stress occurs when an individual, especially a child, experiences long-term stressful events such as physical or emotional abuse, neglect, poverty, or violence, all in the absence of a protective environment.

Toxic stress can have dramatic effects on the body and brain development and lead to psychological, behavioral, and learning problems. In the long-term, toxic stress has been linked to health problems like heart disease and cancer, as well as depression.

Symptoms of toxic stress include difficulty sleeping, anxiety, fearfulness, and irritability. However, complications of toxic stress can be prevented with the support of a supportive environment with caring adults such as parents, caretakers, and teachers.