Texas, Minn. Govs Declare April 2010 as Abortion Recovery Month
Texas Gov. Rick Perry and Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty have officially proclaimed April 2010 as Abortion Recovery Awareness Month in their respective states to raise awareness of traumatic effects and lasting ramifications of abortion.
"An abortion is a tragic ending, not only because of the loss of a life, but also because of the physical and psychological trauma caused by the procedure itself," stated Perry in his proclamation.
"Abortion Recovery Month encourages and promotes healing opportunities and raises awareness of the aftermath of abortion experienced by individuals and families," added Pawlenty.
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According to a study in New Zealand that tracked approximately 500 women from birth to 25 years of age, young women who have abortions were found to subsequently experience elevated rates of suicidal behaviors, depression, substance abuse, anxiety, and other mental problems.
In another study, researchers found that 44 percent of the post-abortion patients they interviewed eight weeks after their abortion complained of nervous disorders, 36 percent had experienced sleep disturbances, 31 percent had regrets about their decision, and 11 percent had been prescribed psychotropic medicine by their family doctor.
A five-year retrospective study in two Canadian provinces additionally found significantly greater use of medical and psychiatric services among aborted women. Most significant was the finding that 25 percent of aborted women made visits to psychiatrists as compared to 3 percent of the control group.
In their proclamations, both governors acknowledged the presence of many organizations in their states that offer support and recovery services to those who have had abortions or who have been impacted by abortion.
"Abortion recovery programs offer invaluable services that help abortion's living victims to forgive and heal through individual counseling, support groups, encouragement and education," noted Perry.
"At this time, I urge all Texans to learn about the lasting ramifications of abortion and the support and counseling options available after abortion," he added. "Together, we can make a difference."
