Adverse Childhood Experiences, commonly known as ACEs, are traumatic or stressful events that occur during childhood. These experiences can have a profound impact on a person's physical, emotional, and mental health throughout their life.

The original ACE study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Kaiser Permanente identified ten types of ACEs, including physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, physical or emotional neglect, growing up in a household with substance abuse, mental illness, parental separation or divorce, or witnessing domestic violence.

Each type of ACE is associated with an increased risk of negative health outcomes, such as chronic diseases, mental health disorders, substance abuse, or difficulties in forming and maintaining healthy relationships.

1. Reflect on your earliest memories from childhood. What emotions come up as you revisit these memories?

2. Describe the environment and relationships you had in your household during childhood. How do you think these experiences have shaped your beliefs about yourself and others?

3. Write about any traumatic events or challenging circumstances you faced during your formative years. How do you feel these experiences have influenced your understanding of safety and trust?

4. Consider how your caregivers responded to your emotional needs. How did their responses impact your ability to express and regulate your emotions?

5. Explore any patterns or behaviors from your childhood that you recognize in your adult life. How do these patterns relate to your ACEs?

6. Identify any coping mechanisms you developed as a result of your adverse childhood experiences. How have these strategies affected your relationships and daily life?

7. Consider the impact of ACEs on your self-esteem and self-worth. In what ways do you see these influences manifesting today?

8. Write about any unresolved emotions or questions you have about your childhood experiences. How can you begin to address or seek closure for these feelings?

9. Reflect on the strengths and resilience you have demonstrated despite your ACEs. How have you overcome challenges, and what inner resources have supported you?

10. Imagine the nurturing environment you would have wanted as a child. How can you cultivate elements of that environment in your present life to promote healing and self-care?

ACEs Worksheets