Nadine Burke Harris is a pioneering pediatrician and public health advocate known for her work addressing health disparities through the lens of childhood adversity and trauma. She earned her medical degree from the University of California, Davis, and completed her residency at Stanford University. Dr. Burke Harris is the founder and CEO of the Center for Youth Wellness in San Francisco, an organization dedicated to improving the health of children exposed to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs).
In 2019, Dr. Burke Harris was appointed as the first Surgeon General of California, where she has focused on raising awareness about the long-term health impacts of toxic stress and advocating for trauma-informed care. Her groundbreaking research has shown that early exposure to trauma can lead to significant health issues, including chronic diseases, mental health disorders, and reduced life expectancy.
Dr. Burke Harris’s work emphasizes the importance of early intervention, prevention, and the integration of mental and physical health care. She has been a vocal advocate for policies that support children and families, aiming to break the cycle of trauma and improve health outcomes for future generations. Her book, “The Deepest Well: Healing the Long-Term Effects of Childhood Adversity,” has further highlighted her contributions to the field and her commitment to health equity.
Here are three videos that describe how Nadine Burke Harris has addressed health disparities in her career:
“How childhood trauma affects health across a lifetime.” This TED Talk features Dr. Burke Harris discussing the impact of childhood trauma on long-term health. (September 2014)
“Nadine Burke Harris on the Impact of Childhood Adversity.” This video includes an interview with Dr. Burke Harris on the effects of childhood trauma. (October 2019)
“DR. NADINE BURKE HARRIS: HEALING THE LONG-TERM EFFECTS OF CHILDHOOD ADVERSITY.” This video features Dr. Burke Harris discussing her work on childhood adversity and toxic stress. (March 2018)
