Reclaiming Life After MST: A Journey of Healing and Support
Through a new and creative approach to Veterans' health care, the Sexual Health and Intimacy Group at Grand Junction VA Medical Center is helping Veterans affected by military sexual trauma.
If you're a Veteran carrying the burden of MST, the path to healing and rediscovering your sexual health and intimacy can sometimes feel overwhelming.
Amy Fife, a pelvic physical therapist, and Mischa Blanchard, a senior social worker, recognized the opportunity and collaborated to create the SHI Group.
Their initiative, fueled by the inspiring work of Dr. Shani Ofrat at VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, helps Veterans reclaim different parts of their lives that have been affected by trauma.
"Our goal is to help Veterans recover from trauma by healing both their mind and body through measurement-based care practice," said Blanchard.
She also explained the SHI Group works with patients to make decisions about their health and create personalized treatment plans, laying a solid foundation for their recovery.
Bridging distances, bridging lives:
The SHI Group's 12-session virtual group makes it easier for the group to connect with and support each other, regardless of where they live.
"VA Video Connect allows us to support Veterans who live far away," said Fife. "It also helps us to bring sexual health and intimacy care to the Veteran quickly and easily, right where they are."
Fife emphasized that telehealth technology has proven to be a lifeline, connecting SHI Group staff and Veterans, especially after a pandemic that further isolated many.
Community of healing and validation:
The SHI Group goes beyond just virtual group sessions; it's a community where Veterans can find validation, support, and an opportunity to contribute toward improving the group.
"The input and suggestions from Veterans have helped improve our program's curriculum and make it more applicable to their specific needs," said Blanchard.
One such Veteran, "Tara," shared her experience.
"For the first time, I felt validated and connected with fellow Veterans, said Tara. "Meeting Amy and starting pelvic health treatment changed—and saved—my life."
Fife encourages Veterans to be mindful of various conditions affecting the pelvic floor and says if you're a Veteran experiencing bladder and bowel problems, pelvic organ prolapse, pelvic pain, pregnancy and postpartum issues, or sexual health issues, please talk to your doctor immediately.
A vision for expanded support:
Thanks to the Spark-Seed-Spread Innovation Investment Program, SHI could be propelled towards a national platform, mirroring VA's unwavering commitment to providing holistic care for Veterans.
"This isn't about filling a gap; it's about forging a new path to lifelong healing, intimacy, and connection," said Blanchard.
Plans are underway for a Health, Intimacy, and Sex Group focusing on men's sexual health, further broadening the spectrum of support provided at Grand Junction VA.
Take the first step:
If the SHI Group resonates with your journey, contact your doctor. Here's a safe and nurturing space awaiting you, ready to assist in navigating the challenges posed by MST and leading you toward a horizon of healing and self-empowerment.
Jesus Flores is a writer & editor on the VISN 19 Creative Task Force and a Marine Corps Veteran.