In-Service Assaults

In-Service Assaults

Sexual abuse and the resulting trauma are a concern for a percentage of soldiers returning home from military service.

Although some victims of sexual abuse may not want to report such incidents, it is vital to understand that such incidents are eligible for disability compensation. The rating that will be applied to your case will be computed based on the specific incident.

The lingering effects of sexual abuse can cause mental and physical disabilities such as sexual dysfunction and various emotional problems.

Thousands of members of the military each year report incidents of unwanted sexual contact, including members of both sexes. This does not take into account the additional incidences that are not reported out of embarrassment or shame.

Additionally, sexual harassment and sexual threat without actual contact can also cause trauma for returning veterans. Trauma can manifest itself in depression, guilt, flashbacks, use of drugs or alcohol to withdraw, an inability to function properly and changes in mood.

Such victims may be in desperate need of psychological counseling. Of course, receiving disability compensation is not always easy. The Veterans Administration will need corroboration of your story.

It is helpful if there is a report of the unwanted sexual contact or sexual threat or harassment, but it is not the only means for proving your case. Evidence may also be submitted from mental health counseling providers, hospitals, physicians, results of pregnancy and sexually transmitted disease tests and statements from fellow members of the military who have knowledge of the incident or resulting trauma.

Because of the sensitive nature of the case and the complexities of gathering evidence, it is recommended that you hire an experienced veterans disability attorney for your sexual abuse/sexual trauma disability claim.