Can ongoing stress in a child affect brain development long term?

[HereForaQuieterLife]

Do elevated stress levels in younger children affect brain development?
My child has been experiencing high stress since a young age (he has ASD and ADHD) he doesn’t sleep well due to anxiety and frequently refuses school so gets very stressed. I’m starting to worry will this have long term effects?
We potentially have an option to travel/relocate and home educate and I’m wondering could this be what he needs to regulate and stay calm?

In short, yes. However, protective factors play a huge part in brain development e.g. his attachment to you, his capacity for emotional regulation and strategies taught for these. Long term stress is not good for the developing brain, however, oxytocin is the ‘antidote’ for cortisol so a loving, safe home and a family that understand his needs will be hugely protective.