Altru Health System

Call to Action: Stress and trauma have the power to shape the futures of those who are exposed at a young age. But, with research comes hope. ACCORDING TO THE Minnesota Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BFRSS) survey, 55 percent of participants reported experiencing at least one Adverse Childhood Experience (ACE) before the age of 18. ACEs include exposure to or experiencing: » Verbal abuse » Drinking problems in household » Separation or divorce of parents » Mental illness in household » Physical abuse » Witnessing domestic violence » Abuse of controlled substances in household » Sexual abuse » Incarceration of a household member "Exposure to traumatic events and violence in the home actually changes the way our brains work," says Kristi Hall- Jiran, executive director of the Community Violence Intervention Center, a local partner of Altru Health System. "And that can lead to health problems that last the rest of children's lives." STARTLING CONNECTIONS Research into the long-term effects of ACEs show that children who are exposed to them are more likely to develop anxiety, depression, diabetes, asthma and obesity and may tend to make poor decisions about smoking and drinking. As the number of ACEs goes up, so does the likelihood of Minnesotans ranking their overall health as poor or fair. Those with six or more ACEs are expected to live 20 years less than those who experienced fewer childhood stressors. "Exposure to violence and trauma in childhood represents a huge opportunity for intervention," Kristi says. "We know that violence can be predicted and it is also very preventable. That gives us hope for a future when more children are raised in safe homes and live longer, healthier lives." Kristi adds that every child needs at least one nurturing parent. Instead of categorizing children as troublemakers, let them know that the trauma they endured is wrong and there's help available. Learn how you can make an impact to end violence at cviconline.org. Care Amid Crisis The Community Violence Intervention Center (CVIC) has cared for the needs of families in crisis since 1980. The CVIC focuses on creating a safe space for victims of domestic violence and their children and implements community programs to help stop the cycle of abuse. CVIC is currently raising funds for a safe home for women and children. "At CVIC we provide safety for those who need it and promote and encourage healing in all parties involved, including the one who is perpetrating the violence," says Kristi Hall-Jiran, executive director of the CVIC. "We also work to end the cycle of violence—stopping it before it starts." Today, the CVIC is aware of and involved in the wellness of 889 local children living in violent homes in our community. To donate to the work being done at the CVIC, visit cviconline.org/donate. ■ COMMUNITY CONNECTION 7 V2N1 | Tips + Insight from your local experts at Altru Health System

• Cover