Violence May Make Women Mentally Ill
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - There is a disturbing study in the Journal of the American Medical Association. However it makes a great deal of sense.
According to the reports, women who experience violence - including domestic violence, rape, sexual assault, and stalking - have a greater risk of developing mental health disorders. The psychological issues that are the greatest are mood disorders, anxiety and posttraumatic stress disorder. There is also a slight increase in substance abuse and suicide attempts.
The main point of the study is that it is very important that victims of violence get psychological support and counseling.
Sadly one of the biggest predictors of potential problems is when individuals are not believed when they make complaints. This supports the theory that people in positions of authority need to be understanding in this regard.
Reported By Dr. Brian McDonough, KYW Newsradio Medical Editor
