"The science of trauma has opened new pathways for understanding and addressing social problems resistant to traditional programs and services. Beginning with the seminal Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) study, which the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention published in 1998, a growing body of research has demonstrated that adverse experiences and chronic stress, particularly in childhood, can harm the developing brain. Repeated exposure to perceived danger alters the connections between brain cells and floods the body with hormones. These biological changes accumulate over time and can have long-term consequences for emotional function, regulatory capacities, physical health, and successful performance in a variety of domains, such as education, parenting, and employment. Research in the field of epigenetics has even suggested the possible biological transmission of trauma from generation to generation.

"A mix of genetic and environmental influences determines physical and mental health. This combination of factors helps to explain why individuals or groups that are exposed to the same trauma may experience different outcomes. Treatments, environments, and cultures that do not recognize the biological impact of repeated trauma may be ineffective or even cause additional harm by retraumatizing those they serve. Behavioral health organizations are increasingly providing evidence-based, trauma-specific therapies. However, therapy alone does not eliminate the risk of an organization’s activating a trauma response, nor does it address the wide range of consequences of traumatic exposure. Trauma-informed organizational models are necessary to address these more systemic issues."

Article: A Trauma Lens for Systems Change