What Are Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Why Do They Matter?

Posted: September 22, 2025

Let’s face it, childhood isn’t always easy. Many of us go through tough times growing up, and those experiences can leave lasting marks that affect our health and wellbeing long after childhood is over (CDC, 2024).

These kinds of difficult events are called Adverse Childhood Experiences, or ACEs. They might include things like (CDC, 2024):

Being abused, neglected, or made to feel unsafe
Witnessing violence at home or in the community
Growing up around someone with mental health challenges
Living with someone who struggles with alcohol or drugs
Losing a loved one to suicide
Dealing with family instability (like divorce, incarceration, or even periods of homelessness)

You're Not Alone

If any of that sounds familiar, you’re definitely not the only one. In fact, more than 60% of adults in the U.S. say they experienced at least one ACE before turning 18. And over 15% report experiencing four or more (CDC, 2024).

While ACEs are common, some communities are more affected than others; especially those facing social, racial, and economic inequalities (CDC, 2024). These larger systems can impact what families are able to access and how safe or supported they feel.

Here’s the Good News: Healing Is Possible (So Is Prevention)

Just because something hard happened in the past doesn’t mean it defines your future. Healing is possible, and there’s so much that can be done to prevent ACEs from happening in the first place (CDC, 2024).

Safe, stable, nurturing relationships and environments can make a world of difference for children and families (CDC, 2024). We all have a role to play in preventing ACEs:

Parents and caregivers: You don’t have to do it all on your own. Learning to talk openly about emotions, mental health, and how to handle stress is a powerful step.
Communities and systems: Access to quality health care, education, mental health support, and safe neighborhoods are all part of the picture.
Policy makers and leaders: Fair policies that support families in their homes, schools, and workplaces can prevent ACEs before they begin.

Parenting Takes a Village

If you're a parent or caregiver, know this: it’s okay to ask for help (CDC, 2024). In fact, it’s a sign of strength. No one should have to do this alone, and no child should have to grow up without the support they need to thrive.

Need Support? We’re Here to Help.

If you or your family have experienced ACEs or you're navigating the challenges of parenting, trauma, anxiety, or relationship stress, we’re here for you.

We offer compassionate, trauma-informed care for adults and couples. Whether you’re ready to start therapy or just want to explore your options, we’re here to walk alongside you one step at a time.

References

United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2024, October 8).

About Adverse Childhood Experiences. CDC. Retrieved August 6, 2025, from

https://www.cdc.gov/aces/about/index.html.

United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2024, October 8).

Preventing Adverse Childhood Experiences. CDC. Retrieved August 6, 2025, from https://www.cdc.gov/aces/prevention/index.html.