the medial frontal cortex (Bryant et al., 2008; Hayes, Hayes, & Mikedis, 2012; Shin et al., 2005). These brain regions are critical for stress response and emotional regulation. Additionally, PTSD is associated with increased risk of AUD, which may exacerbate long-term mental health challenges and further impact brain function (Brady, Back, & Coffey, 2004; Ouimette, Read, Wade, & Tirone, 2010). Chronic alcohol use has adverse effects on brain structures and a broad range of functions, especially those related to memory, executive functions, emotional and psychosocial skills, visuospatial cognition, and psychomotor abilities (Oscar-Berman & Marinković, 2007). Alcohol use is a top modifiable risk factor for dementia risk, emphasizing its critical importance in cognitive health across the lifespan (Schwarzinger et al., 2018). Therefore, advancing our knowledge on the complex and lasting impact of childhood trauma on brain structure and function could have far reaching impacts on mental health.
