Sexual assault (SA) does not discriminate based on age, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic background. Unfortunately, SA is prevalent among active military service individuals, and unique barriers exist that can often prevent these individuals from seeking help. However, healing is possible.
Asking for help can be your greatest strength! 24-Hour Helpline
24-Hour Text Line
877-216-6383
989-200-5122
Shelterhouse serves all victims of domestic and sexual violence regardless of age, gender, race, sexual orientation, income, or ability level. Services are confidential and free of charge. Safe shelter Support groups One-on-one counseling Housing assistance Legal advocacy Sexual assault medical examinations
o m r e n h r a ere e L
Quick Facts Roughly 1 in 3 women and 1 in 50 men screened positive for military sexual trauma (MST) with Veterans Affairs. Women who serve in the military have a higher risk of experiencing PTSD caused by military sexual trauma than PTSD caused by combat. 67% of female survivors and 81% of male survivors choose not to report their experiences. Every year, about 10,800 men and 8,000 women experience sexual assault in the military. Experiencing MST can lead to a higher risk of developing PTSD, substance abuse disorders, depression, and other mood disorders.
Potential Barriers to Seeking Help Many service members encounter barriers to seeking help and accessing resources after experiencing sexual assault within the military. Some of these include:
Afraid to cause tension with superiors and/or peers Fear of being ostracized or shunned by peers if they come forward Shame or guilt associated with the experience Afraid they will not be believed or taken seriously Don't want to jeopardize their position or probability of moving up ranks Threatened by their assailant and forced to keep quiet about their assault
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs National Resource Center on Domestic Violence U.S. Department of Defense
Military Sexual Trauma Military sexual trauma (MST) refers to any type of sexual assault or harassment that occurs during active military service.
Unwanted sexual advances Sexual activity that is forced, pressured, or coerced Non-consensual touching or grabbing in a sexual way Sexual comments about you or your body Any sexual action, comment, or behavior that makes you uncomfortable
If you are an active service member or a veteran who has experienced domestic violence or sexual assault, you are not alone.
The VA runs an Intimate Partner Violence Assistance Program (IPVAP) - contact your nearest VA medical center to get in touch with a IPVAP site coordinator Service agencies, such as Shelterhouse, offer free and confidential shelter, counseling, legal advocacy, and basic needs assistance. We're here whenever you're ready to make the call: 877-216-6383