Sexual coercion is a problem that has been prevalent throughout human history. It is a form of abuse where one person forces another into having unwanted sexual contact through threats or pressure. In the case of military personnel, it can have long-term mental health consequences that may last for years after they leave the service. This article will discuss what these consequences are and how they affect those who experience them.
The first consequence of sexual coercion is PTSD. When someone experiences trauma, their brain releases stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline to help them deal with the situation.
This response does not always go away when the threat is no longer present, leading to symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety attacks. Veterans often suffer from PTSD because of the horrors they witnessed during combat. Sexual coercion can exacerbate these symptoms, making it harder for veterans to return to civilian life.
Another consequence is depression. Depression is a mood disorder characterized by persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, and feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness. Military members who have experienced sexual coercion may become withdrawn and isolated, leading to social withdrawal, which can further worsen their depressive symptoms. They may also blame themselves for what happened, leading to low self-esteem and shame. This can lead to suicidal thoughts or attempts.
Sexual coercion can also lead to substance abuse issues. Alcohol and drugs can be used to numb painful emotions or escape reality. Veterans may turn to alcohol or drugs to cope with the memories of what happened, but this only leads to addiction. In some cases, substances may even cause more problems than they solve.
Sexual coercion can cause post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This condition occurs after exposure to trauma that causes psychological harm. It affects around 7% of military personnel, causing flashbacks, nightmares, and avoidance behaviors. Those with PTSD are at higher risk of developing other mental health conditions like anxiety and depression.
Sexual coercion among military personnel can have long-term consequences for their mental health. These include PTSD, depression, and substance abuse issues. The good news is that there are treatments available for these conditions. With proper treatment, veterans can learn to manage their symptoms and live happy, fulfilling lives outside of service.
It is essential to recognize the signs of these conditions so that help can be sought early on.
What long-term mental health consequences result from experiences of sexual coercion among military personnel?
According to research, sexual coercion can have various long-term mental health consequences for military personnel. These include posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and suicidal ideation.