Page 9 - AL POST 390 FORMS WOMEN VETERANS WomenVeterans-brochure
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More and more women are being exposed
SERVICE CONNECTION FOR WOMEN VETERANS to war zones actions, humanitarian mis-
SUFFERING FROM PTSD sions, peacekeeping forces, and disaster relief.
Women in the military transport and treat the
Women veterans who have been in a war zone, wounded, police dangerous areas, and fly into
or disaster area, have survived sexual harass- hostile territory. They are not only at risk for
ment, sexual assault, rape, domestic violence, personal assault, but face some of the same
stalking, or a hate crime while on active duty combat threats as their male counterparts.
and have been diagnosed with PTSD or other The risks are just as great for women as they
related conditions, can file a VA claim for ser- are for the men in a war zone. Women veter-
vice-connection disability. ans, like their male counterparts, can develop
Evidence that can be used to support a PTSD from these situations.
claim includes:
Women suffering from PTSD may also expe-
• Military records and awards rience a host of other physically debilitat-
ing factors such as chronic pelvic pain and
• Private civilian records stomach problems, low self-esteem, sleep
• Treatment records for a physical injury for difficulties, eating disorders, hypertension,
the assault, but not reported respiratory-related problems, apprehension to
becoming pregnant, sexual dysfunction, and
• Civilian police reports
other relationship problems. Research has
• Reports from Crisis Centers shown that women who have been victimized
are more likely to experience repetitive abuse
• Testimonial statements from friends (civil- or maltreatment throughout their lives.
ian and military), family, co-workers, clergy
Women veterans can file a VA claim for ser-
• Personal diary or journal
vice connection for PTSD.
• Request for changes in military assignment
Domestic Violence
• Increase in sick call or leave slips
For any woman experiencing domestic vio-
• Change in military performance evaluations lence, safety is the paramount issue. For
• Increased use of prescription and over-the- women who have been in the military, the iso-
counter medications lation they may have experienced in changing
stations, or being in an unknown community
• Substance abuse and/or other compulsive may have heightened the potential to be in an
behavior
abusive relationship.
• Request for a pregnancy test
Women veterans should not feel trapped in an
• Request for HIV test or counseling for sex- abusive relationship. There is help available.
ually transmitted diseases They should contact the Women Veterans’
Program Manager at the local VA medical
• Counseling statements in personnel file
center for further assistance and guidance.
• Breakup of marriage or relationship
As with sexual harassment and trauma,
• Reports to Child Protective Services (in domestic violence survivors are also prone to
cases of domestic violence) develop PTSD symptoms and other emotional
To file a claim: Contact an American Legion and physical conditions, which can be treated
Department Service Officer in your state. by the VA.
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