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Early psychological issues may impact future earnings, relationships

By Staff Writer

Compared to mentally healthy youth, children who develop psychological disorders early in life may earn less money and struggle to sustain stable relationships over their lifetimes, according to a new study published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

The researchers followed a group of more than 17,000 children from the time they were born through the age of 50.

Study findings showed that when the participants were 23 years old, those who had mental illnesses stemming from childhood had yearly incomes an average of 19 percent lower than those of the healthy young adults. Likewise, by the time subjects reached 50 years of age, those who did not suffer from psychological disorders had annual earnings that were an average of 25 percent higher.

The investigators noted two factors that may have contributed to this disparity. The study results indicated that participants with mental issues had a 6 percent reduced chance of marriage, which meant that they did not have combined incomes. They were also 11 percent less likely to hold a steady job.

The researchers said they believe that their findings highlight the need for parents to address psychological illnesses early. Boarding schools may help mentally ill children learn how to cope with their disorders.

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