Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)

Question 1

How do Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) affect health?

Answer 1

Experiencing a higher number of ACEs is associated with many of the leading causes of death like heart disease and cancer.

Question 2

What can ACEs have a lasting effect on?

Answer 2

• Chronic health conditions
• Mental health conditions
• Substance abuse disorders
• Health risk behaviors
• Social outcomes

Question 3

How do ACEs affect the development of the brain of children?

Answer 3

• Nucleus acumbens: Pleasure/Reward (substance abuse)
• Prefrontal cortex: Impulse control/executive function (learning)
• Amygdala: Fear response

Question 4

What are Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs) and why are they important?

Answer 4

• Positive childhood experiences (PCEs) result when a child feels safe and supported by their family
• Adults who report high number of PCEs have 73% lower levels of depression and other psychiatric mental health conditions.