Adverse childhood experiences in Orange County are raising concerns among youth. Research says that almost 80% of children are affected by adverse childhood experiences or ACEs, not only in Orange County but also in the USA and the situation is alarming when a huge population of kids, teenagers, and young adults are suffering from peculiar mental health problems. This could involve multiple reasons and factors but majorly poor circumstances or situations in which children experience from their families lead them to such adverse conditions. Therefore, we see many organizations working to support youth and children on the matter and one of the most prominent names is Western Youth Services WYS.  

Western Youth Services Doing Commendable Work in Orange County

Western Youth Services WYS an organization dedicated to providing mental health support to children and youth was founded by a group of parents, police officers, and a few teachers in 1972 and it has been a little over five decades since the WYS has been operational and still actively assisting countless afflicted people of every age. It has a competent team of certified and experienced mental and behavioral health specialists with a proven track record of successfully treating many patients. 

What are ACEs and ACEs Screening Test

Well, as mentioned earlier the name also self-explains that ACEs are adverse childhood experiences. The early years of a child are formative ones. Anything a child experiences or has to go through in his early life leaves an everlasting impression on his mind and becomes part of his personality. Therefore, it is very important to be kind to children and pay proper attention to what you say to them or make them feel because it will have an impact on their psyche and their whole life. Anyhow, if the children get exposed to bad experiences, they get afflicted. ACEs can be diagnosed with a simple ACEs screening test. Often people don’t even have the realization that they suffering from ACEs. The troubles they are having with their personal or professional lives perhaps are because of their adverse childhood experiences. Therefore, mental and behavioral health specialists strongly encourage everyone must take ACEs screening tests at least once in their lives. 

How ACEs Screening Test is Carried Out

It is a very simple method. ACEs screening test consists of a questionnaire. The ten questions with Yes or No options that the patient needs to answer. If he checks three or a few questions as Yes, then he is fine and safe, but if he checks four or more questions affirmatively then he is dealing with ACEs and the matter needs to be addressed. The behavioral specialists at WYS thoroughly analyze the patients and then further advise them the suitable treatment. Whether they need psychotherapy services, mental health medications, or acceptance commitment therapy, WYS is fully equipped to provide them with this all. 

Acceptance Commitment Therapy

Acceptance Commitment Therapy is one of the most efficient processes to deal with any adverse situations or circumstances. The therapy deals with helping the patients stay focused on the present moment and accept any of their thoughts or feelings without making any judgment about it. It encourages mindfulness among the patients, giving them enough strength and focus to calm down and realize anything they are feeling or experiencing. This method is one of the best as it aims to help you move forward through difficult emotions so you can put more effort into healing yourself rather than dwelling on any negative thoughts that may lead to adverse scenarios. 

Western Youth Services is undoubtedly doing a commendable job in Orange County by providing mental health support to the kids and youth. If you are having any mental issues or know someone who does, then you must visit or encourage them to visit WYS to address your concerns.