The Impacts of ACEs
ACEs and Toxic Stress
The stress response is how the body reacts to situations it perceives as threatening or overwhelming. Brief, occasional activation of this response is adaptive and healthy – it helps us respond to challenges and stay safe. However, when the stress response is activated too often or for long periods of time, it can become harmful. This is known as toxic stress.
ACEs often lead to toxic stress, which can trigger a chain of harmful effects in both the brain and the body, increasing the risk of long-term health problems. Toxic stress in childhood is especially damaging because children’s brains are developing rapidly and are therefore more vulnerable to negative experiences. Fortunately, the harmful effects of toxic stress on brain development can be reduced when children have the support of responsive, nurturing caregivers.
The Consequences of ACEs
A large body of research has examined the impacts of ACEs across many areas of health and well-being. The specific effects can vary depending on factors such as the population studied and the type of ACEs experienced. In general, however, the higher a person’s ACE score, the greater their risk for negative outcomes across the lifespan.
Across the research literature, ACEs are consistently associated with increased risk of:
- Physical health problems: Respiratory disease, cardiovascular disease, gastrointestinal disorders, metabolic conditions (e.g., diabetes, obesity), cancer
- Mental health difficulties: Mood disorders (e.g., anxiety, depression), psychotic disorders (e.g., schizophrenia), personality disorders, addiction, suicidality
- Risk-taking behaviours: Alcohol and drug use, sexual risk-taking, criminal behaviour
- Cognitive difficulties: Memory difficulties, problems with attention, planning, and decision-making
- Social and emotional challenges and dissatisfaction
- Poor quality of life
- Poor parenting skills and satisfaction
- Poor academic achievement and developmental delay