Mental Health: A Clear and Present Danger

January 24, 2022


An overwhelming majority of Americans believe the U.S. is in the grips of a full-blown mental health crisis (USA TODAY)." Although a number of factors can contribute to the risk of mental ​illnesses, one contributor in particular is adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). ACEs are factors such as trauma or abuse (i..e. child abuse, violence, sexual abuse of neglect). Other studies including the CDC-Kaiser Permanente ACE Study, show that 64% of adults have at least one ACE, and people with four or more, are associated with significantly increased risk of 7 out of 10 leading causes of death. 

The Mirror Images Program (MI) provides information, presented by group leaders during designated group sessions. This information is designed to generate change in ones thinking as individuals examine perceptions of their life history and experiences. Generally speaking, children naturally narcissistically perceive themselves as the center of the universe. In other words, children typically operate from an "it's all about me" syndrome.  

"To overcome and heal from past trauma or abuse, one has to come to terms with his or her experiences, based on their childhood interpretations."


To overcome and heal from past trauma or abuse, one has to come to terms with his or her experiences, based on their childhood interpretations. Once these past experiences are examined and understood, the individual can move forward and begin to develop new understanding. For example, if a child grew up in an abusive home, they are likely to interpret abusive events or lack of care and attention, as their own fault. However, as an adult, we understand that every individual is responsible for his or her own choices. Although this statement “every individual is responsible for his or her own choices” may be simple in theory, it is not simple in practice.


Past stories often become acceptable and normal as a statement of fact or survival. The key is to instinctively recognize the abusive and emotionally damaging events in your life. If you are willing to take the necessary steps to heal from past damages in your life click here.