Why ACEs Matter

The big deal with ACEs is how they affect the brain and body. When kids go through really stressful situations repeatedly—what researchers call "toxic stress"—it can mess with brain development. This stress can lead to long-term health issues like heart disease, diabetes, and depression.

Think of it this way: if your body’s stress response is always in overdrive because of these tough experiences, it’s like running a car engine nonstop—it’s going to wear out.