PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Sexual trauma can occur in many forms, including rape, assault and emotional abuse. It is estimated that between 25% and 50% of people have been impacted, with a significant percentage suffering abuse as children.
A new report looks at victims of sexual abuse and details how it can have a long-term mental health impact, including an increased risk of depression, anxiety, and bipolar and schizophrenic disorders.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University studied victims of sexual abuse and found a clear relationship, and this was often independent of a genetic link to mental health issues.
Lifelong counseling is often needed for victims.
Get more medical reports from Dr. Brian McDonough.
KYW Newsradio's Medical Reports are sponsored by Independence Blue Cross.
