Exploring the impact of military sexual trauma on mental health and educational attainment for women Veterans: A phenomenological study

Abstract: There is little research that examines the impact that military sexual trauma (MST) has on mental health and educational attainment for women veterans. This study consisted of 10 women who served in the U.S. Military and experienced MST. The study explored their lived experiences across military service, mental health, and educational trajectories. Guided by phenomenological method, semi-structured interviews were conducted between July-September 2024. The research uncovered critical themes in their military experiences, mental health, and educational goals. Emerging themes included institutional complicity, retaliatory repercussions, resilience, cumulative trauma, co-occurring disorders, therapeutic engagement, navigating VA benefits, and institutional responsiveness to veteran needs in institutions of higher education. The findings reveal the complex, interconnected consequences of MST, emphasizing the need for comprehensive support and institutional responsiveness for women veterans.

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