How the ACEs Test Helped Me Understand My Childhood Trauma and Mental Health
Growing up, I always knew there was something wrong with me. I struggled with depression and anxiety, and I had a hard time connecting with others. It wasn’t until I took the ACEs test that I realized why. ACEs stands for Adverse Childhood Experiences, and the test measures 10 types of trauma that people may have experienced before the age of 18.
Childhood Trauma
Childhood trauma can have a profound impact on a person’s mental health. Some of the most common types of trauma that people experience include physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, neglect, domestic violence, or having a parent with a mental illness or substance abuse problem. These experiences can lead to a host of long-term health problems, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, and substance abuse.
My ACEs Score
When I took the ACEs test, I scored a 7. This meant that I had experienced 7 of the 10 types of trauma measured by the test before the age of 18. I was shocked at how high my score was, but at the same time, it validated a lot of the struggles I had been dealing with for years.
Understanding the Impact of Childhood Trauma
Once I understood the impact that my childhood trauma was having on my mental health, it was easier to start addressing those issues in a meaningful way. I started going to therapy, which helped me process some of the difficult emotions I had been carrying around for years. I also began practicing mindfulness and meditation, which helped me learn how to be present in the moment and manage my anxiety.
The Importance of the ACEs Test
The ACEs test is an important tool for anyone who has experienced childhood trauma. It provides a framework for understanding the impact that those experiences can have on a person’s mental and physical health, and it can help people seek out appropriate treatment and support.
Conclusion
Taking the ACEs test was a critical step for me in understanding my own mental health struggles. It helped me see that my trauma was real and significant, and it gave me the motivation to start working on healing. I encourage anyone who has experienced childhood trauma to take the ACEs test and start exploring the impact that those experiences may have had on their life. Remember, healing is possible, and there is always hope for a brighter future.
