This project examines how difficult experiences during childhood (early life stress – ELS) influence mental health in adulthood.

The aim is to understand why some people remain resilient whilst others become vulnerable to depression.

Neural mechanisms: We explore the interaction between stress response systems (amygdala) and reward systems (striatum) in the brain using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI).

Multidimensional Approach: To provide a comprehensive view, the study combines data from neuroimaging, genetics, the microbiome, and daily life tracking via smartphone (EMA).

Innovation: We are creating a European “FAIR” (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) database to help the global scientific community better understand these mechanisms.

Public health: Depressive disorders are one of the leading causes of disability. By identifying biomarkers of resilience, the RESIST-D project aims to facilitate the development of more effective and personalised treatments.

Ethics and commitment: The project adheres to the highest ethical standards (the Declaration of Helsinki) and works with social partners such as the Amor Fati association, which supports victims of sexual abuse.