Effects of Military Sexual Trauma

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Many male and female veterans who experience an incident of sexual trauma, as a result of assault or harassment while they served in the active military, have had no professional counseling or have ever discussed these experiences with anyone. The victims are embarrassed and have legitimate concerns about their confidentiality. Many have moved on in their lives with families and careers. However, they may still experience re-traumatization and have uncomfortable or frightening feelings when they recall the incident. Victims may have strong misgivings about the need or purpose for talking about the incident long after it actually occurred. VA counselors know that people who have been traumatized can be successfully treated and that it is important to the overall health of the victim to talk through these upsetting and terrifying experiences.

The psychological after-effects of a sexual trauma can include:

• Avoidance of places or objects which recall memories of the traumatic incident
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Suicidal thoughts
• Alcohol and other substance abuse
• Recurring and intrusive thoughts and dreams about the trauma incident
• Non-specific health problems
• Problems with interpersonal relationships

LINKS
• National Readjustment Counseling Service
• VISN3 Women Veterans Resources