America’s Fastest-Growing Veteran Population Faces an Invisible Battle
Summary
Women are now the fastest-growing group of U.S. veterans, but many face challenges because the system was not designed with them in mind. Women veterans experience higher rates of homelessness, health problems, and military sexual trauma, yet their service and its effects are often overlooked in both military and civilian healthcare.Key Facts
- More than two million women veterans live in the U.S., and their numbers are increasing.
- Women veterans are over twice as likely to become homeless compared to women who never served.
- About one in three women veterans report experiencing military sexual trauma, much higher than men.
- Women who experienced military sexual trauma have a suicide rate about 45% higher than those who did not.
- Most veterans get healthcare outside the Department of Veterans Affairs, where providers may not ask about military service.
- A common problem is that healthcare workers often do not recognize or believe women’s veteran status.
- Dr. Evelyn Lewis advocates that all healthcare providers ask patients if they or their family members have served in the military.
- Recognizing military service helps healthcare providers identify and treat health issues related to veterans’ experiences.
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