An Exploration of Adverse Childhood Experiences and the Importance of Trauma Informed Care

Written by: Reina Connelly

An adverse childhood experience can be defined as a singular or collection of traumatic experiences that occur between the ages of 0 and 17 years old. (Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 2021). One of the most influential and largest studies on how childhood maltreatment and abuse shape adulthood occurred from 1995 to 1997. The subjects of this study consisted of 17,000 individuals and the tracking their mental and physical health. Based on the most extensive data sampling of its kind, adverse childhood experiences were shown to provide risk factors through multiple facets of life. These include brain health, depression symptomology, impulsivity, pregnancy concerns, sexually transmitted diseases, narcotic abuse, and alcohol abuse. Poor socioeconomic status and challenges in employment were also linked to adverse childhood experiences. (Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 2021)

Multiple subsequent studies have found that most adults have reported chronic adverse childhood experiences. However, there is hope. With trauma being a prevalent topic in the counseling community, many therapists and private practices utilize trauma-informed therapy. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2021). Trauma-informed therapy can be defined as psychiatric care which utilizes educational aspects and empathy to learn about how past traumas affect one’s present life. Trauma-informed care also focuses on client topics such as safety and the decrease of physical and mental health symptoms as related to the trauma. This specific type of care is important to identify when choosing a mental health practitioner. With trauma-informed care, individuals can achieve a healthy therapeutic lifestyle.