Arizona’s success and prosperity are fundamentally linked to our commitment to nurturing and safeguarding our children. Unfortunately, adverse childhood experiences can significantly hinder their development and potentially lead to more serious issues in the future.
Research indicates that children who encounter a higher number of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are at greater risk of facing difficulties later in life, including challenges related to mental health, behavioral issues, and serious health concerns such as opioid addiction, depression, and substance abuse. Furthermore, these children may experience academic struggles and find it more challenging to achieve success in their professional lives, particularly those in foster care or at risk of entering the system. This underscores the vital importance of preventing and addressing ACEs.
Enhancing the support and services available to children and families in Arizona can significantly mitigate the effects of these negative experiences. In doing so, we foster a healthier, safer, and more resilient community for all residents of our great state. Together, we can build a brighter future for our children and ensure they thrive.
Additional Resources
- CDC-Kaiser Permanente Adverse Childhood Experiences Study
- Arizona ACE Consortium
- Arizona Department of Child Safety (DCS)
- Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES)
- Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS)
- Arizona Trauma Institute
- Casey Family Programs
- Child Crisis Arizona
- First Things First
- Phoenix Children’s Hospital
- Southwest Human Development
- West Valley Child Crisis Center