a a Adverse childhood experiences are more common than we think.
According to the CDC, 1 in 6 adults have experienced four or more
ACEs, and 5 of the top 10 leading causes of death are associated with
ACEs (2021). This is important because ACEs can be prevented with
support, community awareness, parental education, and stigma
reduction (Harris, 2015). a I have seen firsthand the effects of ACEs in
students as young as the first grade that suffer from PTSD from their
home environment and experiences. It affects learning, social and
emotional skills, and behavior. Attention should be placed on creating a
nurturing environment to counteract their prolonged stress response
(IHDCYH Talks, 2018). Science gives us insight and builds strong
evidence addressing wellness issues.
a a a a a a a a a Understanding the effect on brain development and future health
problems stemming from ACEs is essential in preventing adverse
outcomes (Harris, 2015). In early childhood, brains develop and make
connections with their environment. ACEs can cause chemical changes
and gene expressions (IHDCYH Talks, 2018). These experiences affect
biology and can also be passed on to future generations (IHDCYH
Talks, 2018). Immune systems can be compromised, and a constant
state of anxiety can be induced. Science is vital to preventing, treating,
and predicting wellness issues.
a a a a a a a a a Finally, we have the potential to lower the risks of conditions such
as diabetes, depression, obesity, heart disease, and cancer (CDC, 2021).
According to the CDC, preventing ACEs could reduce the number of
adults with depression by as much as 44% (2021). Understanding the
effect of nature and nurture through genes and environment explains
and can prevent the detrimental impact of ACEs and encourage a better
society and how wellness is interconnected and is impacted by our
environment.
References
CDC. (2021, August 23). Preventing adverse childhood experiences. Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/vitalsigns/aces/index.html
Harris, N. B. (2015, February 17). How childhood trauma affects health across a lifetime
[Video]. TED Talks.
https://www.ted.com/talks/nadine_burke_harris_how_childhood_trauma_affects_heal
th_across_a_lifetime?language=en
