Central ND News

U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer, along with U.S. Senators Angus King and Patty Murray, emphasized the importance of improving mental health treatment options and suicide reduction efforts for women veterans in a letter addressed to VA Secretary Denis McDonough. The senators highlighted the need to ensure women veterans have consistent access to benefits and healthcare services, especially for those who have experienced Military Sexual Trauma (MST).

In the letter, the senators expressed concerns about the under-utilization of free counseling and evidence-based treatment services provided by the VA for women with MST. They recommended the use of the Women Veterans Call Center (WVCC) to conduct tailored outreach to inform women veterans about these essential mental health services.

The senators emphasized the importance of reducing the stigma associated with seeking care for MST within the VA system. They called for all providers to be educated on the prevalence and complexities of MST, and to be well-versed in trauma-informed care. The senators also highlighted the need for staff at all levels of care to recognize the signs and symptoms of PTSD and MST, particularly for women who have experienced MST and may have faced secondary victimization.

In conclusion, the senators urged for the elimination of any barriers to VA care for women veterans who have experienced MST, emphasizing the importance of providing these veterans with the high-quality care they deserve.