Macon Mental Health Matters launches initiative to address adverse childhood experiences
New survey aims to improve mental health by understanding community trauma
MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Macon Mental Health Matters has launched a new initiative aimed at addressing “Adverse Childhood Experiences” (ACEs), which recognizes that childhood experiences, whether positive or negative, play a significant role in shaping individuals’ lives.
It’s part of the organization’s effort to make Macon the most mentally healthy city in Georgia,
ACEs can include a wide range of stressful or traumatic events such as neglect, household dysfunction or abuse.
As part of the initiative, Macon Mental Health Matters has introduced a survey to understand and address the ACEs in the community. The survey is designed to be easy to use, with just five pages and taking less than 10 minutes to complete.
Andrea Cooke, the project director at Macon Mental Health Matters, says the survey results will help provide a full picture of mental health in Macon.
“The way that trauma works, it imprints on the DNA,” she said. “It’s muscle memory; you don’t even have to remember the traumatic experience for you to react in a certain way.”
By analyzing the data collected, the initiative aims to identify areas in need of support and tailor programs to address the specific needs of individuals.
“Using this data, we’ll be able to redirect our services to places that that need it the most,” Cooke said.
She added survey participants will be provided with resources to address their scores.
The initiative started this week, and Macon Mental Health Matters encourages individuals to participate in the survey to contribute to building a stronger and more supportive community for everyone.
Macon Mental Health Matters says the questionnaire is anonymous.
