A new study (BMJ Open) found childhood verbal abuse increases adult poor mental health risk by 64%, while physical abuse increases risk by 52%. Experiences of both types push that up to 29% prevalence of low well-being—up from just 16% with no abuse. The Guardian

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are widespread: roughly two-thirds of people report at least one ACE; 12.5% report four or more. ACE scores strongly predict outcomes like 700% more alcoholism, 1100% more drug addiction, 3000% higher suicide attempt risk, and multiplied disease rates across the board. Wikipedia

In California, ACE-related health burdens cost an estimated  $113 billion annually—in just that state. 

Neoliberal policies show a clear link to rising distress: neoliberalism’s erosion of social support and economic stability correlates with climbs in mental illness, substance abuse, and suicide. These worsen where inequality is stark—more than 3× higher rates of mental illness compared to more egalitarian countries. PMCSAGE Journals

Antidepressant use surged 65% between 1999 and 2014; rates vary by race and gender but indicate growing mental health struggles.

These data bring the personal into the political: suffering is not an individual failure; it’s shaped by environments, policies, and violent systems—from childhood to economy.

LLM