Fact sheet explores COVID-19 impact on child adversity in Ohio

(COLUMBUS, Ohio) – A new fact sheet from the Health Policy Institute of Ohio takes a preliminary look at the impact of the COVID-19 impact on childhood trauma and adversity in Ohio.

According to the fact sheet, “The full extent of the impacts of the pandemic on children and youth will take years to discern. However, early indicators of childhood adversity signal that the pandemic will have substantial impacts on Ohio’s health, well-being and economic vitality for years to come.” 

An example of one of those early indicators is that from July 2019 to July 2020, reported fatalities from domestic violence in Ohio grew 35%, from 81 deaths to 109. The youngest child reported fatality was 2 years old.

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are “potentially traumatic events” that occur during childhood (ages 0-17). There is variation among researchers in what is considered an ACE, although they can generally be grouped into three categories: Abuse, household challenges and neglect. 

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in unprecedented health, social and economic challenges for all Ohioans. These challenges are far-reaching, including loss of loved ones, unemployment, business closures, disruption to K-12 education and increased stress and social isolation, all of which could contribute to increased ACEs among Ohio children.   

The fact sheet is the latest in a series of HPIO publications and an online resource page to examine the impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) in Ohio. Other publications include:

• Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs): Health Impact of ACEs in Ohio
• Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs): Economic Impact of ACEs in Ohio
• Fact sheet: Exposure to Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) in Ohio
• Fact sheet: The link between Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and poor health

For questions about the brief, or if you would like to talk with the authors of the report, please call or text Nick Wiselogel at 614.530.9918 or email nwiselogel@hpio.net.  

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