Healing Journeys: The Power of Positive Adulthood Experiences

We get to cultivate positive experiences to overcome childhood adversities.

When we hear about Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), it’s easy to get stuck in a mindset that focuses on the damage — on what was broken, on what might not be fixable. ACEs are important to understand because they help us see how early challenges shape behavior, emotional health, and relationships. But we can’t stop there. We also need to talk about Positive Adulthood Experiences (PAEs) — the experiences we create in our adult lives that can counterbalance and even heal the wounds of childhood.

If you’re a parent or family member concerned about someone you love — whether they’re struggling with mental health, addiction, or emotional pain — this article is for you. We’ll explore how PAEs can help reframe healing, offering a path to growth for your loved one and for you. Along the way, I’ll share what I’ve learned from personal experience as well as from working with countless families over the years.

Why Positive Adulthood Experiences Matter

When someone is stuck in a cycle of pain or destructive behaviors, it’s tempting to think the past is entirely to blame. And while it’s true that past trauma often plays a…