Study: Mental health problems during childhood have long-term effects

By Staff Writer

Children who suffer from psychological problems are at risk of experiencing economic and social problems during adulthood, according to a new study.

The report, which appears in the journal Proceedings of the National Academies of Sciences, is based on a longitudinal study of 17,634 children who were born in Britain in 1958. Surveys, physician-led examinations as well as parent and teacher reports contributed to the results.

Researchers found that family income at age 50 was reduced by up to 25 percent among participants who experienced mental health problems as children. Psychological issues had a more negative long-lasting impact on economic status than physical problems, the study concluded.

In addition, by age 50, people who had mental health conditions as children had an 11 percent lower chance of working and a 6 percent lower probability of being married. Childhood problems also had a negative impact on agreeableness and conscientiousness - two traits that are important in one's career and relationships.

These findings indicate that intervention treatment is critical for kids who have psychological setbacks.

Adolescents who suffer from emotional problems may benefit from wilderness therapy programs, which provide help for troubled teens.