This post is part of a series in which I gather insights from leadership, diversity, and wellness experts.

Mental health isn’t something that suddenly starts to matter in adulthood—it’s built from the earliest moments of life. Think about it: the way we manage stress, handle relationships, and navigate challenges is deeply influenced by the environment we were in as children. From our earliest interactions to how we were nurtured during pregnancy, these experiences lay the groundwork for lifelong mental well-being.

Recently, I had the chance to speak with Dr. Karen Molano, a clinical psychologist specializing in early childhood development, to gather insights on this important topic. In this post, we explore evidence-based strategies to enhance mental health and wellness, with a focus on early childhood development, holistic practices, and personal growth.

Early childhood is a delicate period where brain development is at its peak, making it a time of both opportunity and vulnerability. Reflect on your early memories: How did your caregivers respond when you were upset? Did you receive comfort and support, or were there restrictions on how you could express yourself? How did these experiences influence your understanding of mental and emotional health? Additionally, what did your caregivers teach you about taking care of your body and physical health?

This connection between early experiences and long-term well-being is well-supported by research. For instance, a recent study found that adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), such as neglect or trauma, significantly increase the likelihood of developing mental health challenges like depression and anxiety later in life (Tzouvara et al., 2023). But it’s not just about avoiding adversity. Positive interactions—such as reading with a parent,........

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