The 10 ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences) are a set of traumatic experiences that occur in childhood and have been linked to a wide range of long-term health and social problems. They are:
- Abuse:
- Physical Abuse
- Sexual Abuse
- Emotional Abuse
- Neglect:
- Physical Neglect
- Emotional Neglect
- Household Challenges:
- Parental Separation or Divorce
- Mother Treated Violently
- Mental Illness of a Household Member
- Substance Abuse of a Household Member
- Incarcerated Relative
These ACEs were identified in the landmark CDC-Kaiser Permanente Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Study, which demonstrated a strong correlation between the number of ACEs a person experiences and their risk of developing various health and social problems later in life. These problems can include mental health disorders, substance abuse, chronic diseases, and even early death. Recognizing and addressing ACEs is crucial for promoting individual and community well-being.
