Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACES) are stressful or traumatic events that occur in childhood (0-18) that have been found to increase the risk of engaging in health harming behaviours and developing chronic health problems. ACES can be grouped into 3 categories – Abuse, Household dysfunction, and Neglect. Negative behaviours and health outcomes associated with ACES include Behaviour Outcomes and Physical and Mental Health Outcomes.
Early evidence from local, provincial and national sources shows that many ACES-related risk factors have increased, while protective factors have decreased throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. In September, 2022, the Niagara Children’s Planning Council examined current evidence about ACES, presented by Niagara Region Public Health.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, based in Atlanta, Georgia provides 6 recommendations for addressing ACES:
- Teach Skills
- Connect youth to caring adults and activities
- Ensure a strong start for children
- Lessen harms and prevent future risk
- Promote norms that protect against violence and adversity
- Strengthen Economic Support
This resource includes links to nine Learning Resources and cites seven References.
Published By: Niagara Region Public Health
Publication Date: September 28, 2022
Click here to access ACES-Informed Pandemic Recovery: Fostering Resilience in Niagara
