Adverse childhood experiences

Abstract

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are events during childhood that are stressful and may impact upon mental and physical health having effects in childhood and future adulthood. Examples of ACEs include abuse (physical, emotional, sexual); neglect; living in a household with domestic violence, substance or alcohol misuse, or criminal behaviour; or living with a caregiver with mental illness. A history of ACEs is not routinely sought in UK healthcare. As a result opportunities to prevent and modify the negative effects of adverse childhood events are missed.