What Counts As An ACE?
Adverse Childhood Experiences encompass forms of abuse, neglect, violence and trauma; they may also be community and environmentally-based.What Is An ACE Score?
Ranging from 1-10, an ACE score is a sum of the total number of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) someone has before the age of 18. After the age of 18, your score does not change.What Does An ACE Score Mean?
ACE scores are not destiny, they are risk factors that can help in understanding an individual's potential for future adverse health and social outcomes. Most people have at least one ACE in their history. Having a higher number of ACEs is positively correlated to adverse health and social outcomes.The more ACEs one has, the higher the risk that they will have health challenges that could include things like diabetes, addiction, cancer, and even early death.What Health Consequences Are Linked To ACEs?
- Behavioral problems (suicidal ideation, depression, anxiety, trouble relating to people)
- Poor mental health
- Increased rates of substance abuse
- Increased risky behavior, impulsivity
- Development of serious health concerns (heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, etc.)
What Is Toxic Stress And How Does It Relate To ACEs?
During an adverse childhood experience, the body's stress response is activated for a prolonged period of time, resulting in toxic stress. Toxic stress is an acute form of stress that results in physical damage to a child's brain development.What Are Some Signs Or Clues That My Child Is Experiencing Toxic Stress?
Your child may be experiencing toxic stress if they demonstrate:
- Sleep issues
- Frequent headaches
- Stomach aches
- Crying more than usual
- Clinginess
- Bed wetting
- Baby talk
- Development of fears