Recent results from the U.S. National Survey of Children’s Health show that the mental health of American kids is under strain and seems to be getting worse.

Anxiety, depression and behavioral problems appear to be on the rise, while the amount of time kids spend being physically active or getting preventative care is declining.

Children being raised by grandparents, or family members other than their parents (kinship caregivers) are particularly vulnerable to this type of toxic stress due to factors like trauma, neglect, abuse, substance use within their families, incarceration of their parents, and many other variables.

These “Adverse Childhood Experiences” or ACEs, not only impact children, but the community as a whole. That is why Duet, a Valley nonprofit, is working to educate caregivers on ACEs, to help strengthen families and prioritize their mental well-being.

Duet is hosting its next ACEs training series on October 12, 26 and Nov. 9, to focus on toxic stress and trauma informed care. It's a 3 part series that will focus on what ACE's are, approaches to toxic stress and trauma informed care and ways to promote resiliency.

WHAT: ACEs: Toxic Stress and Trauma Informed Care

WHEN: Oct. 12, 26 and Nov. 9 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

WHERE: Mountain View Lutheran Church, 11102 S. 48th Street in Phoenix, 85044

RSVP: Lisa McCormick
[email protected]
(602) 274-5022

Duet is available for remote or in-person interviews to further discuss the importance of this ACEs workshop series, the increasing need for trainings like these, and how they benefit the community as a whole. Grandparents raising grandchildren or kinship families can sign up for the workshop, you don't need to be previously working with Duet to participate.