Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are traumatic events that occur in the lives of children and adults.These events can include substance abuse, behavioral health disorders, physical and emotional abuse, and the lack of establishing meaningful relationships later in life. ACEs are linked to chronic illnesses, depression, change in brain chemistry, and the inability to properly utilize healthy responses to stressful encounters. The elimination of symptoms associated with ACEs can lower diabetes, cancer, and behavioral health disorders, reduce risks of alcohol and tobacco use, have greater opportunities in pursuing education and employment, and reduce the continuum of ACEs (Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 2023). The community and providers can eliminate the stigma associated with ACEs by seeking integrated health services, raising awareness, and establishing more nurturing and trusting relationships where individuals can feel safe and grow.
Center for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). Retrieved on June 24, 2023 from https://www.cdc.gov/vitalsigns/aces/index.html
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