Childhood trauma, which is defined as a traumatic event (e.g., sexual assault, disaster exposure) occurring before the age of 18, has staggering consequences throughout the lifespan (Dye, 2018). Specifically, childhood trauma has long-term effects on neurodevelopment, leading to an increased risk of developing psychiatric and substance use disorders such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD) (Bremner, 2006; Malarbi, Abu-Rayya, Muscara, & Stargatt, 2017; Meyers et al., 2018). Childhood exposure to traumatic events is linked to both structural and functional changes in the brain (Bremner, 2006; Cai et al., 2023; Carrion & Wong, 2012). Structurally, trauma is associated with decreased hippocampal volume, which is linked to memory loss and stress regulation (Teicher et al., 2003; Vythilingam et al., 2002). Functionally, brain changes include the overactivation of the amygdala and a blunted response in both the hippocampus and 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
