Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are traumatic events ocurring in childhood that involve violence, abuse or neglect. ACEs can have health consequences later in life such as increased risk of chronic diseases and mental or behavioral problems.
ACEs are common among children in Mississippi and are closely associated with race, poverty and family structure, and are linked to mental, emotional, developmental or behavioral problems. Children in non-traditional households and lower-income families are especially at risk for experiencing multiple ACEs. These experiences can lead to long-term challenges in physical, emotional and behavioral health.
Preventing ACEs through early intervention, strong community supports, and supportive systems that respond to children’s experiences are essential to improving child well-being and achieving health equity across the state.
