A recent article in thje NY Times discusses the role that Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) plays is determining one's health later in life. It asks us to:
"Imagine if scientists discovered a toxic substance that increased the
risks of cancer, diabetes and heart, lung and liver disease for millions
of people. Something that also increased one’s risks for smoking, drug
abuse, suicide, teen pregnancy, sexually transmitted disease, domestic
violence and depression — and simultaneously reduced the chances of
succeeding in school, performing well on a job and maintaining stable
relationships? It would be comparable to hazards like lead paint,
tobacco smoke and mercury. We would do everything in our power to
contain it and keep it far away from children. Right?"
This essay is a good introduction to this important, and oft neglected, area. For full article see "Protecting Children from Toxic Stress.