Helping Gen Z Through Adverse Childhood Experiences

​Adverse Childhood Experiences, or ACEs, are impacting many young people today. ACEs are potentially traumatic situations that occur before a child reaches the age of 18. They can include abuse (physical, emotional or sexual), neglect (physical or emotional), or household dysfunction (mental health, divorce, substance or physical abuse, or relative incarceration). Research indicates that around 30 percent of all children have experienced at least one ACE, that is roughly one out of every three Gen Z youth. Almost half of those have experienced more than one ACE. ACEs can have profound long-term effects on the mental and physical health of those impacted.

It is important for leaders, mentors, parents and teachers to be aware of negative situations affecting the young people around them and to provide support for those who have had adverse childhood experiences. Here are a few strategies to consider as we support Gen Z. 

• Be aware of warning signs of abuse or neglect
• Create healthy environments for children and teens 
• Take the time to cultivate nurturing relationships with the young people in our life (actively listen, express empathy, be consistent, demonstrate respect)
• Model healthy attitudes and behaviors that young people need to thrive
• Help children, teens, and young adults who have been impacted by ACEs get the help they need 
• Encourage and support parents and caregivers so they have the resources, time, health, and capacity needed to provide effectively for the children and youth in their care

For more on this topic, check out the most recent episode of The Leading Tomorrow Podcast. 

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