Nearly half of all American children ages 0-17 experience Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). These can include abuse, neglect, community violence, natural disasters, unexpected death of caregivers, traumatic medical procedures, and so much more (NICHQ, 2024). In addition to the obvious health and emotional impact of trauma, the total lifetime economic burden in the United States resulting from child maltreatment is estimated to be over $100 billion dollars (Fang, et al., 2012).
Because of the prevalence and deleterious impacts of childhood trauma, early treatment and intervention is vitally important for promoting long-term health and well-being. Some of the benefits of evidence-based trauma treatment for children include:
Improved Long Term Outcomes:
Early intervention can significantly reduce the risk of developing long-term mental health problems, such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. It can also help prevent physical health problems in adulthood, such as heart disease, diabetes, and chronic pain.
Enhanced Brain Development:
Childhood is a critical period for brain development. Trauma can disrupt this process, leading to cognitive difficulties, learning problems, and behavioral issues. Early intervention can help promote healthy brain development and improve cognitive function.
Improved Social and Emotional Skills:
Trauma can have a significant impact on a child’s ability to regulate emotions, form healthy relationships, and develop social skills. Early intervention can help children learn how to cope with their emotions, build healthy relationships, and develop social skills.
Increased Resilience:
Early intervention can help children develop coping skills and resilience, making them better able to handle future challenges and adversities.
And, of course, no project would be complete without a considerable number of both regularly scheduled and impromptu meetings…
References:
Fang, X, Brown, D, Florence, C., & Mercy, J. (2012). The economic burden of child maltreatment in the United States and implications for prevention, Child Abuse & Neglect (36, 2), 156-165. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chiabu.2011.10.006.
National Institute for Children’s Health Quality https://nichq.org/insight/bringing-trauma-forefront-early-childhood-systems