Learn more about our Behavioral Health and Mental Health Services www.osceolarhc.org/behavioral   How trauma affects mental health BY Kiesha Marco, Registered Nurse at Osceola Regional Health Center   Trauma can leave lasting emotional and psychological wounds that shape the way people think, feel and respond to the world around them. From anxiety and depression to difficulties with relationships, self-worth and emotional regulation, the effects of trauma often extend far beyond the original experience. Understanding how trauma, particularly early-life trauma, affects mental health is essential for recognizing symptoms, fostering healing and creating more compassionate support systems for those affected. One of the most significant areas of research in recent years has focused on adverse childhood experiences and the effects they have on mental health.   What are Adverse Childhood experiences? Adverse Childhood Experiences (commonly known as ACEs) are potentially traumatic events that occur during childhood (before age 18). While many people may refer to trauma as extreme or rare, ACEs are more common than most realize and can include a wide range of experiences. ACEs can be defined as abuse (physical, emotional, or sexual), neglect (physical or emotional), or other factors such as witnessing domestic violence, substance abuse (including in-utero exposure), mental illness in the home, parental [...]