Prevalence of Military Sexual Trauma
Military Sexual Trauma (MST) refers to sexual assault or repeated, threatening sexual harassment experienced during military service.
Among Recent Veterans (OEF/OIF Era):
· Men: 4% experienced MST.
· Women: 41.5% experienced MST.
· Sexual Harassment:
· Men: 3.9%.
· Women: 41.1%.
· Sexual Assault:
· Men: 0.5%.
· Women: 10.2%
· Combat Exposure Impact:
· Combat-exposed individuals had higher risk for MST, sexual harassment, and sexual assault.
· Combat-exposed men were 1.57 times more likely to experience MST.
· Combat-exposed women were 1.42 times more likely to experience MST.
Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) has shown to be effective in addressing Military Sexual Trauma (MST) among veterans and active military members.
· Decreased PTSD Symptomology:
- EAP reduces PTSD symptoms through mindfulness practices.
- Mindfulness helps survivors manage trauma-related distress.
· Improved Relational Functioning:
- Working with horses enhances relational skills.
- Participants learn trust, boundaries, and healthy connections.
· Mind-Body Reintegration:
- EAP fosters mind-body integration after trauma.
- Horses provide a unique avenue for reconnecting with one’s body.
· Empowerment and Recovery:
- EAP contributes to recovery and empowerment for survivors.
- Equines offer a non-traditional, appealing therapy option.