VA in Syracuse raising awareness on military sex abuse

Syracuse (WSYR-TV) – The VA Hospital in Syracuse is bringing attention to something once considered taboo: sex abuse in the ranks of the military.

Staff at the facility want former military personnel to know that help is available for those who have suffered from Military Sexual Trauma (MST).

Experts say that the “macho image” among soldiers once made them reluctant to come forward. However, the facility found that among veterans seeking care 800 out of 33,000 reported suffering from MST – and nearly have of them were men.

Jan Humphrey is a trained expert who provides help in a coordinated effort between the VA Hospital and the Veterans Center.

“There’s a steady case load of both men and women who come in and all ages,” Humphrey said.

Anyone seeking help for MST should call (315) 425-3439 or (315) 478-7127.