ACEs stand for Adverse Childhood Experiences.
Adverse Childhood Experiences are potentially traumatic events that occur in childhood (0-17 years). These experiences can have a significant and lasting impact on an individual's health and well-being across their lifespan.
Examples of ACEs include:
- Experiencing violence, abuse, or neglect.
- Witnessing violence in the home.
- Having a family member with mental health problems.
- Having a family member with substance use disorder.
- Experiencing parental separation or divorce.
- Having a family member incarcerated.
These experiences are considered adverse because they disrupt the safe, stable, and nurturing environment a child needs to thrive. The more ACEs a person experiences, the higher their risk for developing a range of negative health and social outcomes later in life. These outcomes can include:
- Mental health disorders (depression, anxiety, etc.)
- Substance use disorders
- Chronic diseases (heart disease, cancer, diabetes, etc.)
- Risky behaviors
- Early death
Understanding ACEs is crucial for promoting prevention efforts and developing interventions to mitigate their harmful effects.
