This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the association between sexual abuse and a lifetime diagnosis of psychiatric disorders. The study searched 9 databases from January 1980 to December 2008, including all age groups, languages, and populations. Six independent reviewers extracted data from eligible longitudinal studies, which included 37 studies with 3,162,318 participants. The analysis found a statistically significant association between sexual abuse and a lifetime diagnosis of anxiety disorders, depression, eating disorders, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), sleep disorders, and suicide attempts. However, no significant association was found between sexual abuse and schizophrenia or somatoform disorders. The history of rape strengthened the associations with depression, eating disorders, and PTSD. The study concluded that sexual abuse is associated with an increased risk of multiple psychiatric disorders, and early recognition and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes.This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the association between sexual abuse and a lifetime diagnosis of psychiatric disorders. The study searched 9 databases from January 1980 to December 2008, including all age groups, languages, and populations. Six independent reviewers extracted data from eligible longitudinal studies, which included 37 studies with 3,162,318 participants. The analysis found a statistically significant association between sexual abuse and a lifetime diagnosis of anxiety disorders, depression, eating disorders, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), sleep disorders, and suicide attempts. However, no significant association was found between sexual abuse and schizophrenia or somatoform disorders. The history of rape strengthened the associations with depression, eating disorders, and PTSD. The study concluded that sexual abuse is associated with an increased risk of multiple psychiatric disorders, and early recognition and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes.