Breaking the Silence on ACEs: How the Kaiser & CDC Study is Shedding Light on Childhood Trauma
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Breaking the Silence on ACEs ~ As a mental health professional, I have seen firsthand the devastating impact that Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) can have on individuals. ACEs are traumatic events that occur during childhood, such as abuse, neglect, and household dysfunction. These experiences can have long-lasting effects on a person’s physical and mental health well into adulthood. In this article, I will discuss the ACE Study, its findings, and the work of committed healthcare professionals in shedding light on childhood trauma.
Introduction to Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are traumatic events that occur during childhood. These events can include physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, neglect, or household dysfunction, such as substance abuse, mental illness, or divorce. Research has shown that ACEs can have a profound impact on a person’s health, well-being, and quality of life.
The ACE Study – What is it?
The ACE Study is a research project conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Kaiser Permanente from 1995 to 1997. The study surveyed over 17,000 adults, asking them about their childhood experiences and current health status. The study found that ACEs were more common than previously thought, and that they had a significant impact on a person’s physical and mental health.
Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences and its impact
ACEs can have a profound impact on a person’s physical and mental health. The study found that people who experienced ACEs were more likely to have chronic health conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. They were also more likely to suffer from mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The study also found that ACEs were linked to risky behaviors, such as substance abuse and unprotected sex.
ACEs Statistics and Prevalence
ACEs are more common than previously thought. The ACE Study found that two-thirds of participants experienced at least one ACE, and one in five experienced three or more ACEs. The study also found that ACEs were more common among certain populations, such as people of color and those with lower incomes.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a study conducted by Kaiser Permanente and the CDC found that ACEs are quite common in the United States, with almost two-thirds of adults surveyed reporting at least one ACE, and more than one in five reporting three or more ACEs.
Here are some statistics related to ACEs in the United States:
- About 60% of adults surveyed reported experiencing at least one ACE, and about 16% reported experiencing four or more ACEs.
- Women are more likely than men to report experiencing ACEs.
- ACEs are more common among racial and ethnic minorities, low-income individuals, and individuals with less education.
- The most common ACE reported was emotional abuse, followed by household substance abuse and parental separation or divorce.
- Individuals who experience ACEs are at increased risk for a range of negative health outcomes, including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.
It’s important to note that these statistics are based on self-reported data, and not all individuals who experience ACEs may report them. However, these statistics highlight the prevalence and impact of ACEs on individuals in the United States.
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) can have significant negative impacts on a person’s physical and mental health outcomes throughout their life. Here are some health outcomes and statistics associated with ACEs:
- Mental health: ACEs are associated with an increased risk for depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and suicide. Individuals with four or more ACEs are at a significantly higher risk for mental health disorders compared to those with no ACEs.
- Substance abuse: ACEs are associated with an increased risk for substance abuse and addiction. Individuals with four or more ACEs are at a significantly higher risk for developing a substance use disorder compared to those with no ACEs.
- Obesity and chronic disease: ACEs are associated with an increased risk for obesity and chronic diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Individuals with four or more ACEs are at a significantly higher risk for these health outcomes compared to those with no ACEs.
- Social problems: ACEs are associated with an increased risk for social problems, such as homelessness, incarceration, and unemployment.
- Lifespan: ACEs can shorten lifespan. Individuals with four or more ACEs have a reduced lifespan by 20 years compared to those with no ACEs.
These statistics emphasize the severe impact of ACEs on individuals and the urgency to address and prevent them. It is important to provide support and resources for individuals who have experienced ACEs to help mitigate the negative health outcomes associated with them.
The ACE Test – What is it, and how does it work?
The ACE Test is a questionnaire that assesses a person’s exposure to ACEs. The test consists of ten questions, each asking about a specific type of ACE. The questions range from “Did a parent or other adult in the household often or very often…push, grab, slap, or throw something at you?” to “Did you often or very often feel that…you didn’t have enough to eat, had to wear dirty clothes, and had no one to protect you?” The test is used to assess a person’s risk for health problems later in life.
The questions is an ACEs test focus on the 10 primary adverse childhood events.
The 10 primary Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are:
- Physical abuse: The experience of physical harm or injury inflicted by a parent or caregiver, including hitting, kicking, or burning.
- Emotional abuse: The experience of emotional harm or injury inflicted by a parent or caregiver, including belittling, name-calling, or shaming.
- Sexual abuse: The experience of sexual activity with a child, including unwanted touching or penetration.
- Physical neglect: The failure of a parent or caregiver to provide adequate physical care, including nutrition, shelter, or medical attention.
- Emotional neglect: The failure of a parent or caregiver to provide adequate emotional support and nurturing, including ignoring a child’s needs or failing to show affection.
- Household substance abuse: Living with someone who has a substance use disorder or who abuses drugs or alcohol.
- Household mental illness: Living with someone who has a mental illness or who has been hospitalized for a mental health issue.
- Parental separation or divorce: The separation or divorce of parents or caregivers.
- Incarcerated household member: Living with a household member who has been incarcerated.
- Witnessing domestic violence: Witnessing domestic violence between parents or caregivers or between an adult and a partner.
These experiences can have long-lasting and harmful effects on an individual’s physical and mental health. It is important to recognize and address ACEs in order to prevent and mitigate their negative impacts.
ACEs Trauma – The long-term effects on physical and mental health
ACEs can have long-lasting effects on a person’s physical and mental health. Research has shown that ACEs can lead to chronic health conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. They can also lead to mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. ACEs can also affect a person’s ability to form healthy relationships and succeed in life.
Epigenetics in Psychology
ACEs are a subsector of epigenetics, which is the study of how genes are expressed and regulated. Research has shown that ACEs can affect the expression of genes, leading to changes in behavior and health outcomes. For example, ACEs can lead to changes in the stress response system, leading to a heightened response to stress later in life.
Epigenetics is the study of changes in gene expression that do not involve changes to the underlying DNA sequence. Epigenetic changes can be influenced by a variety of factors, including environmental exposures, lifestyle factors, and psychological experiences. In psychology, epigenetics is a growing area of research that is helping to shed light on how experiences and environmental factors can influence gene expression and impact mental health outcomes.
Research in epigenetics has shown that experiences and exposures can alter the activity of genes that are involved in regulating the stress response, emotion regulation, and other aspects of psychological functioning. For example, studies have found that childhood adversity, such as abuse or neglect, can lead to changes in DNA methylation (a type of epigenetic modification) that alter the functioning of genes involved in stress response and emotion regulation. These changes can persist into adulthood and are associated with an increased risk for mental health disorders, such as depression and anxiety.
Epigenetic research has also highlighted the potential for experiences and environmental exposures to have transgenerational effects, meaning that they can impact the gene expression of future generations. For example, studies in animals have found that exposure to stress or toxins can lead to epigenetic changes in sperm or egg cells that are passed down to offspring and can impact their behavior and mental health outcomes.
Overall, research in epigenetics is helping to illuminate the complex interplay between environmental factors, gene expression, and psychological outcomes. It has the potential to inform the development of new interventions and treatments that target the epigenetic mechanisms underlying mental health disorders.
Epigenetics in Trauma
Trauma can also affect the expression of genes. Research has shown that trauma can lead to changes in the stress response system, as well as changes in the immune system and inflammation. These changes can lead to a range of health problems, including chronic pain, autoimmune disorders, and mental health conditions.
Epigenetic changes can have a significant impact on the way a person responds to traumatic experiences. Studies have found that exposure to trauma, particularly during early life, can lead to epigenetic changes that alter the functioning of genes involved in stress response and emotion regulation. These changes can persist into adulthood and are associated with an increased risk for mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
One of the most studied epigenetic modifications in relation to trauma is DNA methylation, which is a process that involves the addition of a methyl group to the DNA molecule. DNA methylation can alter the expression of genes involved in stress response, emotion regulation, and other aspects of psychological functioning. Studies have found that exposure to trauma, particularly during childhood, can lead to changes in DNA methylation that persist into adulthood and are associated with an increased risk for mental health disorders.
For example, studies have found that individuals who experienced childhood abuse or neglect have increased levels of DNA methylation in genes that regulate stress response and emotion regulation, which can lead to an impaired ability to cope with stress and regulate emotions. These epigenetic changes may contribute to the development of mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety.
Epigenetic research has also highlighted the potential for experiences and environmental exposures to have transgenerational effects on epigenetic changes. Studies in animals have found that exposure to stress or toxins can lead to epigenetic changes in sperm or egg cells that are passed down to offspring and can impact their behavior and mental health outcomes.
Overall, epigenetic changes can play a significant role in the way a person responds to trauma, and understanding these changes can inform the development of new interventions and treatments that target the underlying epigenetic mechanisms.
Breaking the Silence on ACEs – How the Kaiser and CDC Study is shedding light on Childhood Trauma
The Kaiser and CDC Study has shed light on the prevalence and impact of ACEs. The study has raised awareness of the issue of childhood trauma and has led to increased funding for prevention and intervention programs. It has also led to the development of the ACE Test, which is now widely used to assess people’s exposure to ACEs.
Adverse Childhood Experiences – Prevention and Intervention
Prevention and intervention are key to addressing the issue of ACEs. Preventing ACEs requires a comprehensive approach that includes addressing the underlying factors that contribute to them, such as poverty and social inequality. Intervention requires a range of services, including mental health treatment, substance abuse treatment, and parenting support.
ACEs Awareness – Why it is important to talk about it
Awareness of ACEs is important because it helps to reduce stigma and promote understanding of the issue of childhood trauma. It also helps to raise awareness of the long-term impact of ACEs on physical and mental health. Talking about ACEs can help to promote prevention and intervention efforts and can help to create a more supportive and compassionate society.
Resources for ACEs Survivors and Advocates
There are a number of resources available for ACEs survivors and advocates. These include mental health treatment, support groups, and advocacy organizations. It is important for ACEs survivors and advocates to connect with these resources in order to get the help they need and to promote awareness and understanding of ACEs.
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are a major public health issue that can have long-lasting effects on physical and mental health. The Kaiser and CDC Study has shed light on the prevalence and impact of ACEs and has led to increased awareness and funding for prevention and intervention efforts. It is important for individuals, families, and communities to work together to prevent ACEs and to provide support and care for those who have experienced childhood trauma.
The Work of Rick Wallace, Ph.D., Psy.D.
Rick Wallace, Ph.D., Psy.D., is a clinical psychologist and researcher who has dedicated his career to studying trauma and its effects on mental health. Dr. Wallace has written extensively on the topic of Epigenetics, ACEs, and trauma and has developed a number of interventions to help people heal from trauma. His work in engaging ACEs in inner-city communities is well-documented. Through the research center at The Odyssey Project (An organization founded by Dr. Wallace to address the issues that plague the Black community), Dr. Wallace spearheads a charge to reduce the occurrence of ACEs and to offer much-needed intervention. With programs like Black Men Lead, Dr. Wallace is committed to reaching Black youth before it is too late.
Support the Odyssey Project!
Additional Reading:
Emotional & Psychological Trauma: What It Is and How To Heal From It