Veterans Day is a chance to honor the bravery and service of all veterans – especially women, who face unique challenges while wearing our country’s uniform. The hurdles you may encounter during and after your service include higher rates of sexual discrimination and assault, alongside issues such as PTSD and substance abuse.
Unique Challenges Faced by Women Veterans
Unfortunately, women who join the armed forces may deal with complexities their male comrades are less likely to experience.
- Sexual discrimination and harassment: Women are often in the minority in military settings, which can lead to isolation and an increased risk of discrimination. This environment can perpetuate feelings of alienation and stress.
- Military sexual trauma: MST refers to unwanted sexual activity, coercion, inappropriate touches or unwelcome comments. It affects an estimated one in three female veterans, according to VA statistics, and can profoundly affect your mental health due to issues like guilt, shame and fear.
- Combat exposure and PTSD: While PTSD is widespread among all veterans, effects like hyperarousal and avoidance are typically more pronounced in women. Other traumas can compound the disorder, leading to complex psychological issues.
- Transition to civilian life: Reintegrating into civilian life poses specific challenges for women veterans, who may face stereotypes and misunderstandings about their service and capabilities. The adjustment can also prompt feelings of lost identity, community and purpose.
Mental Health Issues Arising from These Challenges
The unique stressors faced by women veterans can lead to several serious mental health issues.
- Higher rates of PTSD: Women who serve in combat or experience military sexual assault are particularly susceptible to PTSD. Symptoms like flashbacks and emotional numbness can be debilitating and significantly impact your daily functioning and quality of life.
- Depression and anxiety: These conditions are widespread among women veterans, often exacerbated by experiences of discrimination, trauma and the stress of reintegration into civilian life.
- Substance abuse: Many veterans self-medicate untreated mental health issues, leading to a cycle of dependency and additional health problems.
Supporting Women’s Mental Health
Women veterans deserve recognition and gratitude for their patriotism and courage, and that includes assistance that meets your specific needs.
- Enhanced support networks: Meeting other women who have had similar experiences can reduce your feelings of isolation and give you a place where you belong.
- Education and awareness: Raising awareness about the specific challenges faced by women veterans can enhance others’ empathy for what you have been through.
- Advocacy and policy change: Advocating for policy changes that protect women in the military can reduce instances of discrimination and assault and improve overall conditions.
- Accessible mental health resources: A qualified therapist can address your issues before they become more severe.
Our One-of-a-Kind Mental Health Retreat
As we honor the service of all veterans this Veterans Day, let’s pay special attention to the selfless women who have served our country. Rising Roads Recovery is a women’s-only wellness center where you can get specialized attention for mental health and addiction. Here, you will receive respect and non-judgmental care in an environment designed to restore your well-being and confidence in yourself. We’d love to hear from you when you’re ready to learn more.
