What are ACEs

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACES) are stressful events occuring in childhood that have the potential to result in chronic or overwhelming stress while growing up. This is particularly the case where a child or young person does not have the support of a commited and caring adult. ACEs can be experiences that are typically characterised as trauma, for example childhood sexual or physical abuse but they also inlcude experiences that tend to accumulate stress levels in a child or young person. This includes:

• domestic violence
• parental abandoment through separation or divorce
• a parent with a mental health condition
• being neglected, either physically or emotionally
• having a member of the household in prison
• growing up with adults who have drug or alcohol problems

Epidemiological studies have demonstrated that as the number of ACEs a child or young person experiences increases, their chances of lifelong impacts increase. A wide range of impacts have been reported including:

• involvement with violence and the Criminal Justice System 
• health issues including making frequent GP visits, type 2 diabetes and heart disease
• health harming behaviours such as risky drinking, smoking and drug use
• leaving school without qualifications

Experiencing a high level of ACEs is thought to impact the brain and developing systems in children and young people, sometimes resulting in a comprised capacity to regulate emotions and behaviour and to develop relationships with other that would be supportive.

Understanding the potential impacts of ACEs is the business of everyone who will come into contact people as part of their job. The resources below can be helpful in increasing your knowledge and awareness.