Most people are unaware of the profound impact trauma has on health and wellbeing. Similarly, many people don’t understand what actually “counts” as trauma. Humans are a sensitive species impacted mentally and physically by an array of hurtful events.
Between 1995 and 1997 a groundbreaking research project was conducted by Kaiser Permanente. The ACE Study (Adverse Childhood Experiences Study), screened over 17,000 individuals, primarily white, middle-class Californian’s who received physical exams and completed surveys regarding their childhood experiences and physical health.
The purpose of the study was to explore whether or not a link exists between traumatic childhood events and long-term physical health outcomes. The results of the research were astounding. They detail the way in which increased adverse experiences in childhood are directly correlated with increased risk of physical and mental disease.
Of the individuals surveyed, over two thirds indicated at least one adverse childhood experience, and more than one in five participants reported three or more ACEs.
The original study asked whether or not participants had experienced any of the following during their first 18 years of life:
Emotional abuse
Physical abuse
Sexual abuse
Mother treated violently
Substance abuse in the household
Mental illness in the household
Parental separation or divorce
Incarcerated household member
Emotional neglect
Physical neglect
Though the study only screened for these specific forms of trauma, we know many more forms of trauma exist such as traumatic loss, various forms of violence, natural disasters, medical trauma, bullying / cyberbullying, etc.
ACEs are common, nearly two-thirds (64%) of adults have at least one. ACEs don’t occur alone….if you have one, there is an 87% chance you’ll have two or more.
The more ACEs you have, the greater your risk for chronic disease, mental illness, violence and being a victim of violence.
With an ACE score of four or more, things get very serious. The likelihood of…
Chronic pulmonary lung disease increases 390%
Hepatitis increases 240%
Depression increases 460%
Attempted suicide increases 1,220%
Trauma is directly linked to negative long-term outcomes in health and wellbeing.
This is empowering information because there are things we can do to reduce exposure to traumatic events, and there are interventions we can employ to decrease long-term health impacts caused by trauma.
If you’re curious to find your own ACE’s score, take 5 minutes to complete the survey today.
If you discover you’re at risk or suspect someone you know may be at risk, reach out for support to develop a recovery plan that addresses the underlying cause. Early intervention is key to enact healthier long-term outcomes.
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