Brought to you by Penguin.

We think of babyhood and old age as polar opposites on the spectrum of life. Yet they are profoundly linked. Our early experiences set us up for a lifetime of good mental and physical health, or for future health challenges.

The First 1,001 Days will explore these vital and often overlooked factors. Delving into the latest research in the fields of medicine, neuroscience and psychobiology, acclaimed psychotherapist and author Sue Gerhardt explains how many of the most common illnesses affecting our society today – from type 2 diabetes to cardiovascular disease, depression and dementia – have their roots in pre- and post-natal childhood development.

She challenges the political and cultural issues that hinder us from acting on what science is telling us – for example, that ill health is often seen as a result of wrong ‘lifestyle’ choices – and will change the way we approach illness, prevention, screening and cure within our healthcare and wider social systems.

There is no simple cause and effect that explains an individual’s health outcomes. But in learning about the ways your childhood continues to shape your health today, you can feel empowered to seek the help you need.

© Sue Gerhardt 2025 (P) Penguin Audio 2025