California Surgeon General Dr. Diana Ramos Launches PSA to Raise Awareness of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Toxic Stress

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• USA - español

New PSA highlights the impacts of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and toxic stress, offering tools to help Californians heal and build resilience

SACRAMENTO, Calif., Feb. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- California Surgeon General Dr. Diana Ramos has unveiled a new 30-second Public Service Announcement (PSA) as part of California's Live Beyond campaign, a statewide effort to raise awareness about Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and toxic stress. The PSA highlights tools in English and Spanish to help Californians manage toxic stress, heal from adversity, and break cycles of trauma.

ACEs are a pressing issue in California. A recent survey found that three out of five youth, young adults, and caregivers in the state have experienced at least one ACE, and many have faced four or more. Despite this prevalence, the study also revealed that only 10% of young adults and caregivers are familiar with ACEs and their potential impacts.

"ACEs and toxic stress can profoundly affect our health, relationships, and well-being," said Dr. Ramos. "But the good news is that with awareness and support, we can take steps to recover and build resilience for ourselves and future generations. The Live Beyond campaign offers the tools, resources, and inspiration to help Californians move forward and live a healthier life."

The 30-second PSA, available in English and Spanish, highlights the long-term effects of ACEs and toxic stress – such as difficulties with mental and physical health – and promotes actionable strategies to live a healthier life. The campaign encourages Californians to visit livebeyondca.org for resources, including stress-busting guides, screening tools, and tips for creating supportive environments.

Download the PSA in English here: Link to PSA - English 
Download the PSA in Spanish here: Link to PSA - Spanish

The campaign website offers a wide array of tools, including:

• Screening tools for people to find out if they have ACEs and learn about next steps.
• Stress-reducing techniques like practicing mindfulness, nurturing supportive relationships, exercise and quality sleep.
• Materials for youth, caregivers, healthcare providers, educators, and community organizations, such as posters, guides, and journals.

All resources are available for free at Live Beyond. Many resources are available in English, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, Tagalog, and Vietnamese.

About Live Beyond
The Live Beyond campaign from the Office of the California Surgeon General is part of the Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative (CYBHI), a historic investment by the State of California that seeks to ensure all young people and families can find support for their emotional, mental, and behavioral health needs — when, where, and in the way they need it most. It is a key component of Governor Gavin Newsom's Master Plan for Kids' Mental Health and Governor Newsom's broader Mental Health Movement.

Contact:
Madeleine Young
[email protected]
714-325-3527

SOURCE Office of the California Surgeon General