Challenges Female Veterans Face

Female veterans, who make up 10% of the veteran population, face a unique set of challenges in transitioning to civilian life. For many, these challenges include PTSD, difficulties connecting with their families and communities, and inadequate access to resources such as medical care and job opportunities.

Female veterans are often excluded from conversations about veteran issues due to gender biases that exist within the veteran community. This lack of representation makes it difficult for female veterans to access the resources and services they may need.

For example, there is a lack of female-oriented mental health treatment, such as peer support or group therapy, that caters to women within government and military organizations and agencies.

Another example is the treatment for disabilities. Although many women lose limbs while serving, most of the support, prosthetic devices, and medical for these types of injuries are based on the physiology of men. Since women tend to be smaller in the arms and shoulders but wider in the hips, oftentimes, the devices that are available do not fit properly. This can lead to emotional distress and physical discomfort for female veterans. Women can purchase custom prosthetics from the privet market, but in most cases, these are not offered by any government agency.

Based on research gathered since 9/11, female veterans typically have a higher rate of unemployment than their male counterparts. In some cases, women are unable to find employment or hold a steady job due to their service-related mental or physical problems. Female veterans also experience homelessness at a high rate than male veterans, with that rate more than doubling since 2006.

How Veterans Place of Washington Boulevard Can Help

It is essential that we recognize the unique challenges that female veterans face and create programs and policies to help them transition back into civilian life. Providing adequate access to medical care, mental health services, job opportunities, and educational training can make a huge difference in improving their quality of life.

By doing so, we can ensure that all veterans are supported as they transition back into civilian life. At Veterans Place, we offer a variety of resources for female veterans, including housing, education, and employment assistance. Contact us today to learn more!