Danielle Staub: 'I was abused as a child'

Former Real Housewives of New Jersey star Danielle Staub has said that she is now seeking psychological treatment after admitting that she was sexually abused as a child.

Staub, who left Housewives last year after several heated arguments with her cast mates, claimed that her problems with self-esteem stem from her past abuse.

"My low self-esteem derived from childhood sexual abuse has messed with my mind and self-worth, and over the years I thought about getting help but pushed it deep into the depths of denial," Staub told People.

Staub garnered controversy recently when she signed a three-year contract with Scores Gentleman's Club in New York, a deal she claims to have now walked away from.

"Seeing how I have hurt myself and my family this time, I can no longer push it behind me," she added.

The reality star is believed to have sought help for her emotional problems from Celebrity Rehab host Dr Drew Pinsky.

Staub will next be seen opposite Heidi Montag and Jake Pavelka on the VH1 reality show Famous Food.