Adverse Childhood Experiences & The Deepest Well

I just finished reading (really listening to on Audible!) The Deepest Well: Healing the Long-Term Effects of Childhood Adversity by Dr. Nadine Burke Harris.

It’s a powerful book that explores the long-term impact of childhood trauma on physical and mental health. 

Dr. Harris, a pediatrician and former Surgeon General of California, presents groundbreaking research through case studies and personal anecdotes, and explains how adverse childhood experiences (ACEs)—like abuse, neglect, or household dysfunction—can affect a child's brain development and increase the risk of chronic health issues later in life. 

So often, I work with individuals whose struggles somehow link back to their early childhood experiences. During EMDR sessions, it's very common for a client processing a current stressor or trauma to recall something seemingly unrelated that happened years ago. It’s wild!

It reminds me of Anne Lamott’s quote: “The most profound thing we have to offer our own children is our own healing.”

It’s true. As parents, we all want to protect our children and help them navigate their own negative experiences. But one of the best ways to get ahead and prevent the inadvertent negative impact of generational trauma is by engaging in our own growth and healing. 

Wondering what you’d score on the ACEs assessment? Check out the assessment here.

And if your score indicates you experienced adverse childhood experiences (especially if you score 4 or higher), consider reaching out to a mental health professional for support.🩵