Research, data and specialists opinion suggest a strong link between childhood trauma and multiple risk factors for several of the leading causes of death in adults. The big body of research cited in this paper (other chapters) suggest that many of the stressors linked to these risks increased during covid 19 pandemic (poverty, unmanaged stress, mental health challenges for parents linked to mental health challenges to children).
We found a strong graded relationship between the breadth of exposure to abuse or household dysfunction during childhood and multiple risk factors for several of the leading causes of death in adults.
Seven categories of adverse childhood experiences were studied: psychological, physical, or sexual abuse; violence against mother; or living with household members who were substance abusers, mentally ill or suicidal, or ever imprisoned
Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9635069
Source: https://www.ajpmonline.org/article/S0749-3797(98)00017-8/abstract
Research on stressors occurring early (i.e., childhood and adolescence) and late (i.e., aging) in the lifespan have suggested that individuals exposed to chronic stressors (e.g., abuse, caregiving) can exhibit immune dysregulation that may be persistent and severe.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4465119/
Research demonstrates the correlation between childhood adversities linked to poverty and negative outcomes in adulthood, indicating that poverty may itself be considered an adverse childhood experience.
Source: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/323928589_Poverty_as_an_Adverse_Childhood_Experience
Source: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/323928589_Poverty_as_an_Adverse_Childhood_Experience
Health and trauma
Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) contribute to a broad spectrum of health challenges across the lifespan and constitute a significant public health issue.
Date: 2019
Source: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2590109519300023
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) have a tremendous impact on future violence victimization and perpetration, and lifelong health and opportunity. Working together, we can help create neighborhoods, communities, and a world in which every child can thrive.
Source: https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/childabuseandneglect/acestudy/index.html
Substance misuse and mental health problems are cited between the leading causes of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs).
Adverse childhood experiences, or ACEs, are potentially traumatic events that occur in childhood (0-17 years). For example:
- experiencing violence, abuse, or neglect
- witnessing violence in the home or community
- having a family member attempt or die by suicide
Also included are aspects of the child’s environment that can undermine their sense of safety, stability, and bonding such as growing up in a household with:
- substance misuse
- mental health problems
- instability due to parental separation or household members being in jail or prison
ACEs are linked to chronic health problems, mental illness, and substance misuse in adulthood. ACEs can also negatively impact education and job opportunities. However, ACEs can be prevented.
Source: https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/childabuseandneglect/aces/fastfact.html
Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are stressful or traumatic events that children experience before age 18 years. Studies have linked exposure to ACEs and negative health, and developmental and behavioral outcomes.
Date: 2020
Other sources:
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/318862308_The_science_of_adverse_childhood_experiences