To Put Into Perspective How Common ACEs are, Let’s Look At The CDC-Kaiser ACE Study Results.
From 1995-1997, the Kaiser Permanante Health Group surveyed 17,000 of their mostly white, middle and upper-middle class, college educated patients in San Diego. Guess how many said they had endured childhood adversity?
| ACE Score | Women | Men | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 34.5% | 38.0% | 36.1% |
| 1 | 24.5% | 27.9% | 26.0% |
| 2 | 15.5% | 16.4% | 15.9% |
| 3 | 10.3% | 8.6% | 9.5% |
| 4+ | 15.2% | 9.2% | 12.5% |
Participants’ Outcomes as Adults
These are not estimates, these are real numbers showing happened to the 17,000 participants, grouped by their ACE score.
To adults who have endured adverse childhood experiences,
You are not alone. Despite how isolating those experiences made us feel, the data shows that we are all carrying an invisible burden. Here’s what you can do to get support in grieving the childhood you deserved, but never had:
- Share your story so another child enduring adversity can learn what coping mechanisms did or did not work for you.
- Spread awareness of the important of childhood experiences to your community.
- Ask your doctor about preventative measures and diets that reduce chances of chronic illness showing up in your adulthood.
- Utilize group therapy, psychologists and therapists, local clinics, and healthy relationships with friends and family to get ahead of the toxic effects of childhood adversity.
- Starting looking for a supportive online community of people who have survived similar childhood adversity as well.
A child who experiences adversities is NOT doomed!
The more frequently children experience the 7 PCE, the less likely self-destructive behaviors will take hold in adulthood. Schools, enrichment program leaders, and family can all come together to facilitate PCEs in lives of their young ones. Community coordination and tax funding directed towards avenues for instigation of the PCE is needed. Together, your community can support your children’s growth into adults who can identify and attain their happiness!
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