Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) refer to potentially traumatic events that happen to someone from birth to age 17, such as abuse, neglect, or household dysfunction. These circumstances frequently have profound and long-lasting effects on a person’s physical, emotional, and mental health, as well as their overall social functioning. Learn how they might shed light on what contributed to your substance use disorder (SUD) or alcohol use disorder (AUD) and how the trauma-informed treatment approach at Sobriety Centers of New Hampshire can help. 

Understanding More About ACEs 

The vital importance of addressing ACEs has gained widespread recognition in recent decades, thanks in large part to the groundbreaking work of physicians and researchers Robert F. Anda and Vincent J. Felitti. Their collaboration with Kaiser Permanente in the late 1990s brought to light the deep connection between childhood trauma and the development of physical and mental health conditions later in life, including AUD and SUD. 

ACEs encompass a wide range of traumatic events that children and adolescents may experience. These events are categorized into three main groups: 

• Abuse. Physical, emotional, or sexual harm inflicted by a caregiver or other adult figure.
• Neglect. A caregiver’s failure to provide basic needs such as food, shelter, medical care, emotional support, or education.
• Household dysfunction. Exposure to family instability, such as alcohol or substance misuse, suicide, mental illness, domestic violence, parental separation or divorce, or the incarceration of a family member.

The above examples aren’t the only traumatic experiences a child might face. Others include: 

• Being in the foster care system
• Bullying
• Homelessness
• Surviving and recovering from a severe accident
• War and other conflicts 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that approximately 64% of U.S. adults have experienced at least one ACE before the age of 18. Of those, nearly 17% reported having experienced four or more types of ACEs. 

The more ACEs a person has, the greater their risk for developing chronic health issues, mental health conditions, and substance use problems later in life. ACEs also affect education, employment opportunities, and earning potential, often leading to a cycle of poverty and social instability. If a person scores four or more on the ACEs Quiz, they face an exponentially higher risk for these negative outcomes, especially if they don’t receive appropriate support and care.

How ACEs Affect Brain Development

Traumatic experiences during childhood disrupt the development of key brain regions that help process emotions, memories, and stress. For example, the hippocampus, prefrontal cortex, and amygdala—regions responsible for memory, logical thinking, and emotional regulation—are highly impacted by early trauma.

Research from the Center for the Developing Child at Harvard University explains that exposure to “toxic stress” during childhood overloads the stress response system, impairing brain development and the body’s ability to cope with stress in the future. Over time, this causes difficulties in managing emotions, forming healthy relationships, and controlling the numerous health challenges referenced above. 

Therapeutic Approaches to Move Past Adverse Childhood Experiences 

By recognizing ACEs and understanding their impact, you can take proactive steps to heal and move towards healthier, more fulfilling lives. Here are some methods that might help. 

Trauma-Informed Care

One of the most important strategies for healing from ACEs is working with medical providers who understand the impact of early trauma on physical and mental health. These professionals use a holistic approach to care, focusing on creating a safe, supportive environment for you to explore your experiences and begin the healing process.

Substance Use Disorder Treatment

If you’re struggling with alcohol or substance use as a result of unresolved ACEs, comprehensive treatment may involve detoxification, different types of therapy, and mutual aid groups. Addressing the underlying trauma that led to substance misuse is essential for long-term recovery.

Building Supportive Relationships

Having stable, nurturing relationships helps regulate the stress response and provides emotional security, which is essential for healing. This process includes strengthening connections with family members, friends, or peers. 

Healthy Lifestyle Choices

Adopting a balanced lifestyle restores balance to your body and mind. Regular physical activity, proper sleep, and whole foods nutrition are all vital for improving mental health and reducing stress. Various studies indicate that these habits promote neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to reorganize itself and form new, healthier neural pathways.

Mindfulness Practices

Different techniques including meditation, yoga, progressive muscle relaxation, and breathing exercises, can be highly effective in reducing stress and fostering emotional regulation. These methods help you focus on the present moment, making it easier to manage anxiety, anger, and other intense emotions often tied to trauma.

Trust the Trauma-Informed Care at Sobriety Centers of New Hampshire 

Our primary goal at Sobriety Centers of New Hampshire is to deliver high-quality, evidence-based treatment. We have three locations to serve you: 

• The Antrim House in Antrim, a detoxification and residential treatment facility for men and women.
• Recovery Mountain in Tilton, a residence for Veterans and first responders as part of outpatient programming.
• The Lakes Addiction Treatment Center in Laconia, offers inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient rehabilitation programs for men and women.

The journey of healing from ACEs is a courageous one, but once accomplished, it’s possible to embrace profound transformation and lasting peace. Our core philosophy centers on the belief in each person’s resilience and ability to heal and promote recovery from trauma. If you or a loved one is ready for this type of compassionate approach, talk to a member of our admissions team today.