1 School of Psychology, The University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, United Kingdom.
2 School of Education, The University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, United Kingdom.
3 College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates.
4 Center for Child and Human Development, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, United States.
5 Centre for the Study of Learning and Performance, Concordia University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
6 Early Childhood Authority, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

Introduction: This study investigates the cumulative effects of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on adult depression, anxiety, and stress in Abu Dhabi, controlling for demographic factors, lifestyle, and known health and mental health diagnoses.

Methods: Utilizing a cross-sectional design and self-report measures, the research aims to fill a critical gap in understanding the specific impacts of ACEs in the UAE. Based on a multi-site, cross-sectional community sample of 697 residents of Abu Dhabi.

Results: The findings reveal significant variances in current screening values for depression, anxiety, and stress attributable to ACEs after controlling for demographic factors, lifestyle risk factors, and adult diagnoses of health and mental health conditions.

Discussion: The results underline the lifelong impact of ACEs and reinforce the importance of early identification and intervention. In particular, the implications for policy and practice in understanding and mitigating ACEs long-term effects on mental health are considered.