Childhood trauma (CT) increases rates of psychiatric disorders and symptoms, however, the lasting effect of CT into adulthood has little exploration using large-scale samples.

This study estimated the prevalence of CT in a large sample of Chinese young adults, examining the risk factors of current psychological symptoms among those with CT experiences.

117,769 college students were divided into CT and non-CT groups. The propensity score matching method balanced the confounding sociodemographic factors between the two groups, compared to 16 self-reported psychiatric disorders (e.g., depression, anxiety, eating disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, autism, social anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder), and seven current psychiatric symptoms. Hierarchical regression employed the significant risk factors of the seven current psychiatric symptoms.

The prevalence of CT among young adults was 28.76% (95% CI: 28.47–29.04%). Youths with CT experiences reported higher psychiatric disorder rates and current symptom scores (P < 0.001). Sociodemographic factors (females, family disharmony, low socioeconomic status, poor relationship with parents, lower father’s education level) and lifestyle factors (smoking status, alcohol consumption, lack of exercise) were significantly associated with current psychiatric symptoms.

Public health departments and colleges should develop strategies to promote mental health among those who have experienced CT.