Effects of childhood experiences on cortisol levels in depressed adults.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the impact of childhood abuse and parental bonding on cortisol levels in depressed adults. METHODS: Mean afternoon cortisol levels were measured in 192 depressed adult patients at the beginning of a treatment trial. Childhood experiences of physical and sexual abuse were ascertained by interview, and perceived parenting by self-report. RESULTS: Maternal affectionless control, childhood sexual and physical abuse were all associated with cortisol levels. CONCLUSION: Childhood experiences, especially maternal affectionless control, appear to be related to hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis function in depressed adults.