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All About ACEs

ACEs 101

Brave fACEs can help you learn how past experiences shape your health based on research from Kaiser Permanente and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

 

The landmark Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) study measures 10 types of experiences that may affect us as we grow up. These experiences are grouped into three categories, each reflecting challenges that children may face before the age of 18, often related to their caregivers:​ Abuse (Physical, emotional, sexual), Neglect (Physical, emotional), Household Dysfunction
(Mental illness, violence between partners, divorce, having an incarcerated relative, and substance abuse)

 

New research also looks at other types of trauma, like toxic stress, racism, and poverty.

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The Impact of ACEs

Experiencing ACEs can have a lasting impact on both our physical and mental health. People with a history of ACEs are at higher risk for chronic health conditions such as coronary heart disease, stroke, asthma, COPD, cancer, kidney disease, diabetes, obesity, and mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

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ACEs can lead to harmful health behaviors, such as smoking, heavy drinking, substance misuse, physical inactivity, risky sexual behavior, and suicidal thoughts or actions. A high number of ACEs can also lead to a lack of health insurance, unemployment, or an incomplete high school education.

Risk Factors

People with four or more ACEs are:​​

  • ​3x more likely to develop lung disease or become adult smokers.

  • 11x more likely to use intravenous drugs.

  • 14x more likely to attempt suicide.

  • 4.5x more likely to develop depression.

  • 2.5x the level of liver disease.

These risks can occur without intervention. However, by addressing ACEs early and promoting Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs) and Protective Factors, these outcomes can be avoided. Building resilience through support and intervention can reduce these risks and improve long-term health and well-being.

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Redefine Your Resilience
Your Adverse Childhood Experience (ACEs) score helps you understand your past—but it doesn’t define your future.

Taking action is key to overcoming the impact of ACEs. By addressing these experiences and building resilience, you can reduce their effects and take control of your future.

 

See how life’s challenges can make us stronger and show that we are greater than adversity.

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