Importance of Asking the Question

Service providers who specialize in women's services, crisis support, and domestic violence encounter Veterans, service members, and military families, but they don't always know it. Veterans and their spouses can be reluctant to identify themselves. They also can be proud and stoic, and don’t always ask for help themselves. Combat traumas, Military Sexual Trauma (MST), and reintegrating after a military deployment can impact family relationships, anger management, and safety. Appropriate service provision and coordination depends on understanding a client's history and the various challenges, opportunities, and services available to them. The way to ensure service members, Veterans, and their families get the best possible services is to ASK!

When the Answer is YES

By asking, you can increase your understanding of their challenges and better assist them in safely accessing the resources and services they need. Asking further questions will also help to:

• Build rapport and demonstrate interest by listening to the Veteran
• Identify any past and present service-related stressors
• Refer to military and Veteran resources and referrals, including both VA and non-VA programs

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