What are the 9 ACE’s?
Prior to age 18, experiencing any of the following at home:
1) recurrent physical abuse
2) recurrent emotional abuse
3) contact sexual abuse
4) alcohol or drug abuse in the home
5) incarcerated household member
6) someone who is chronically depressed, mentally ill, institutionalized, or suicidal
7) mother is treated violently
8) one or no parents
9) emotional or physical neglect
What does ACE’s stand for? What are they?
Adverse Childhood Experiences
- analysis of relationship between multiple categories of childhood trauma and health and behavioural outcomes later in life
- one of the root causes of addiction is predominantly experience dependent during childhood (not substance dependent)
What is the potential impact of ACE’s on future health?
- increased risk of health problems, including alcohol/drug abuse, COPD, depression, heart and liver disease, relationship violence, unplanned pregnancies, suicide attempts, unemployment, low income.
- ACE’s are one of the main determinants of health and social well being of the nation
What are some of the possible roles for individuals in families impacted by substance misuse?
1) person who abuses substances
2) family manager (used to be known as enabler
3) Hero
4) Scapegoat
5) lost child
6) mascot
What are some qualities people can strengthen if they want to become more resilient?
1) hardiness
2) self enhancement
3) repressive coping
4) positive emotion and laughter
5) the ability to be assertive and emotionally tough when necessary, but also sensitive and compassionate
6) strong, dependable support from at least one significant other in their lives
7) attention to personal health and well being
8) a strong sense of personal identity
9) a realistic and balanced awareness of their strengths and limitations
