JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Exposures to both negative and positive experiences in childhood have proven to influence cardiovascular, immune, metabolic, and neurologic function throughout an individual’s life. As such, Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) could have severe consequences on health and well-being into adulthood.

Objective:

This study presents a narrative review of the use of digital health technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) to screen and mitigate risks and mental health consequences associated with adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) among children and youth.

Methods:

A total of 18 search articles were reviewed to evaluate and identify means by which existing digital solutions may be useful in the mitigation of the mental health consequences associated with the occurrence of ACEs in childhood and adolescence, and/or prevent ACE occurrence due to mental health consequences, including by highlighting knowledge gaps/barriers for digital health technology (DHT) implementation for vulnerable populations.

Results:

Findings from the search suggest that the incorporation of DHTs stands to improve the quality of related care provisions for the management of mental health consequences of adverse or traumatic events in childhood including PTSD, suicidal behavior/ideation, anxiety/depression, and ADHD.

Conclusions:

The use of digital health technologies, machine learning tools, natural learning processing, and AI has a positive and encouraging response in mitigating the risks of ACEs. Under proper legal regulations, security, privacy, and confidentiality assurances, digital technologies could assist in mitigating the effects of ACEs and promoting positive childhood experiences (PCEs) in children and young adults, bolstering resilience, and providing reliable public health resources to serve populations in need.