Adverse childhood experiences: the single greatest unaddressed public health threat

We now understand better than ever how exposure to early adversity affects the developing brains and bodies of children. It affects areas like the nucleus accumbens, the pleasure and reward center of the brain that is implicated in substance dependence. It inhibits the prefrontal cortex, which is necessary for impulse control and executive function, a critical area for learning. And on MRI scans, we see measurable differences in the amygdala, the brain's fear response center. So there is concrete neurologic evidence why those exposed to high doses of adversity are more likely to engage in high risk behaviour and suffer worse health outcomes. 

To learn more about this enlightening research see Dr. Nadine Burke Harris' TED Talk: 

https://www.ted.com/talks/nadine_burke_harris_how_childhood_trauma_affects_health_across_a_lifetime?language=en