Issues Specific to Women

Women report exposure to many different types of traumatic events, and are especially likely to experience sexual assault in childhood, adulthood, or both.

Sexual assault is a type of trauma that often leads to the onset of PTSD for both women and men. Given greater exposure to this type of trauma, women are particularly at risk for PTSD.

These fact sheets have information that is specific to women and trauma.

• Rape of Women in a War Zone
  Summarizes the prevalence and effects of war-related rape on women in a war zone, such as in Kosovo and Bosnia.
• Sexual Assault against Females
  Defines sexual assault, how often it occurs, and the characteristics of perpetrators. Discusses women's reactions to sexual assault and what to do if you have been sexually assaulted.

Videos

• Women Who Served in Our Military
• Traumatic Stress in Women Veterans
  Discusses stressors faced by women Veterans and what can help.
• Women, Trauma and PTSD
  Learn about trauma and PTSD in women.
• Women's Mental Health Services in the VA
  Describes services offered to women Veterans, including the Women Veterans Health Care Program.