As a female veteran myself who gave over 15 years in service to my country, I know what it’s like to be one of the few females in a male-dominated world.
A growing number of women are serving in the United States military, accounting for anywhere between 10-15% of the veteran population.
Female veterans like myself experience particular challenges in their lives both in the military and in the following civilian life.
In this article, I want to list out some of the specific challenges that female veterans face in their lives, then give you some resources for warriors like you to discover your life purpose.
Let’s dig in.
Higher Rates of Sexual Trauma
Because women still make up a relatively small percentage compared to men of the veteran population, they are prone to higher rates of sexual trauma.
Sexual trauma comes in many forms, none of which are excusable under any circumstances.
Many female veterans find it difficult to speak out against their oppressors, as toxic male behavior in the military is oftentimes ‘excusable or ‘part of the norm.’
Nearly one third of females report episodes of sexual assault during their service.
71 to 90 percent of females have reported sexual harassment.
These numbers are inexcusable in every circumstance.
Higher Rates of Homelessness
Returning service women are nearly four times as likely as men to become homeless.
Of this population of homeless veteran women, 40% of those have reported being sexually assaulted while in the military.
The issues that female veterans face tend to compound, making it even more difficult for women to understand and trust their divine journey.
PTSD Programs Neglect Sexual Assault
While some progress has been made overall towards treating PTSD for veterans, the programs provided usually are not structured to address sexual assault.
Although it is vitally important to treat PTSD triggered by combat and other military-related incidents, women veterans are being left behind after experiencing sexual assault.
Military sexual assault is a stronger predictor of PTSD among women than combat history. And for some women, PTSD stems from both.
This must be addressed.
What You Can Do to Heal as a Female Veteran
I know how hard it is, as a female veteran myself, to heal from the unique challenges that women veterans face in their lives.
But I want you to know this: if you are a female veteran who has experienced these traumas, there is hope.
You are a warrior. You can heal.
By discovering your life purpose, revolutionizing the way you view yourself, and a dedicated spiritual practice, you can walk the path to wellness.
At Ascended Warrior, we’ve cultivated a thriving community of veterans dedicated to meeting the unique needs of female veterans.
Are you ready to walk the path?
Contact me with your story; I’d genuinely love to hear from you.
Together, we can heal. We can be a community of women that rise above.
Join us!