Story perspectives

High Hair Cortisol Signals Mental Health Risks in Kids

9/16/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Research from the University of Waterloo shows that hair cortisol levels can identify children with chronic physical illnesses (CPI) at risk for mental health issues.
The study tracked 244 Canadian children over four years, finding that over two-thirds had high cortisol levels.
Elevated cortisol correlated with increased depression, anxiety, and behavioral problems.
Decreased cortisol levels indicated resilience and fewer mental health symptoms.
The findings support using biomarker assessments in pediatric care for early intervention.

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Story summary

Research from the University of Waterloo shows that hair cortisol levels can identify children with chronic physical illnesses (CPI) at risk for mental health issues.
The study tracked 244 Canadian children over four years, finding that over two-thirds had high cortisol levels.
Elevated cortisol correlated with increased depression, anxiety, and behavioral problems.
Decreased cortisol levels indicated resilience and fewer mental health symptoms.
The findings support using biomarker assessments in pediatric care for early intervention.