Effect of Adverse Childhood Experiences on the Mental Health of Adults

Background: Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are traumatic incidents before the age of 18 years that can lead to health problems. Globally, it is estimated that 40 million children suffer from abuse or neglect. ACEs have long-term effects on physical and mental health. There is a lack of research on the prevalence of ACEs in Saudi Arabia. Moreover, information is scarce regarding the correlation between ACEs and the mental health of adults. This study was conducted to assess the impact of ACEs on mental health (social anxiety disorder (SAD), aggression, and low self-esteem) among adults in the Middle Region of Saudi Arabia.Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 430 adults. An online self-administered questionnaire was used, and it included five sections, which are sociodemographic characteristics, assessment of ACEs, aggression, SAD, and self-esteem.Results: The prevalence of ACEs was high, with 48% of participants reporting having five or more ACEs. There was a significant association between ACEs and aggression. Those with a high level of aggression had a higher score of ACEs compared to those with low aggression levels (6.3 ± 2.6 Vs. 3.2 ± 2.2). This difference was statistically highly significant (F= 26.7 and p <.0001). Participants with a high level of SAD had a higher score of ACEs compared to those with low SAD levels (5.5 ± 2.5 Vs. 3.9 ± 2.5). This difference was statistically highly significant (F= 21.7 and p <.0001). Those with a low level of self-esteem had a higher score of ACEs compared to those with high self-esteem levels (6.6 ± 1.8 Vs 3.4 ± 2.3). This difference was statistically highly significant (F= 29.3 and p <.0001).Conclusions: There is a high prevalence of ACEs among adults. ACEs were significantly linked to low self-esteem, aggression, and SAD in adulthood. Sexual abuse and physical neglect were identified as common predictors of these mental health issues. It is recommended that other studies to be conducted to explore the key factors contributing to the high prevalence of ACEs and to understand the impact of ACEs on the physical health of adults as well.