When I was at my lowest point with Autoimmune, I began reading the book The Last Best Cure. In this book, the author mentions the connection between ACES (Adverse Childhood Experiences) and chronic health conditions.
Prior to reading the book, I never knew that difficult things we’ve experienced as children could have a negative impact on our health as adults. Recognizing this connection, and taking the necessary steps to work through my own ACES, was a massive turning point in my healing journey.
So how are ACES defined? In the landmark 1998 study, they asked participants 10 questions in regards to their childhood. Questions involved topics such as bullying, emotional neglect, any type of abuse, having a parent who was frequently absent or incarcerated, or having a parent with drug, alcohol or mental health problems. The more someone answered “Yes”, the higher their ACE score. The higher their ACE score, the more likely they were to develop chronic health conditions in adulthood.
One of the most eye-opening results from the 1998 study is that 70% of adults are estimated to have at least 1 ACE.
Since the 1998 study, numerous follow up studies have been conducted with similar results. In 2009, a study was published which focused specifically on childhood stress and the risk of Autoimmune disease. The authors found that experiencing traumatic stress in childhood increased the likelihood of hospitalization for an autoimmune disease as an adult.
Yes, these are sobering findings, but they are ALSO empowering. For so many of us, we’ve been given no “root cause” for our health issues. Understanding how trauma can negatively impact our health is the first step.
If ACES applies for you, now what? Since trauma can be stored in the body and negatively affect the brain and nervous system, working with a qualified, trauma informed therapist can be really beneficial. There are a number of great resources out there. Stay tuned for more on this topic.
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