Depression in women often caused by sexual harassment in office

A new study warns that sexual harassment at work is a 'chronic problem' for women and is causing lasting mental illness.

According to researchers, women are suffering anxiety, depression, eating disorders and post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after being victimized at their work places.

The study further elaborates that many of them are turning to drink and drugs in order to cope and in the long run have a lower level of overall happiness.

The researchers further found that male victims do not find their experiences as anxiety-provoking, nor do they see it as bothersome, stressful or upsetting as females.

The findings come in the wake of recent sex scandals that have rocked Hollywood and the Houses of Parliament.

According to study author Professor James Campbell Quick from the University of Texas, evidence continues to suggest women may experience negative mood, eating disorders, drug and alcohol abuse as well as work turnover intentions, long term anxiety, job stress and or burnout.

He added that sexual harassment is a continuing, chronic occupational health problem in organisations and work environments.'

Professor Quick further says that an interesting find was that the percentage of charges filed by males increased 15.3 per cent; yet, women continue to file the majority of complaints.

Organisational climate is a strong predictor of workplace sexual harassment and can include situations where men outnumber women, supervisors are predominantly male and employees believe complaints will not be taken seriously.

The study, published in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology, said research has shown hierarchical power dynamics are at the root of sexual harassment.