Fear of a family member in childhood is associated with use of prescription psychotropic drugs when older, study shows

Adverse experiences in childhood, including persistent fear of a family member, are associated with significantly increased use of prescription psychotropic drugs when older, says a follow-up study that showed that improved recognition and help for families at risk might prevent future mental health problems.

The association between childhood adversities and adult mental health disorders is well established. But previous studies have looked at single childhood adversities, such as sexual abuse, or at single disorders, such as depression …