Show Notes
Dr. Brandy Preston-Rivers, a victim advocate and researcher on MST discusses the impact of MST on survivors and the military as a whole and her research on MST and its impact on society. She highlights the biases and challenges faced by survivors when seeking help within the military system. We cover the importance of early counseling and therapy for survivors, as well as the need for trauma-informed medical teams during perinatal care. and correlation between alcohol and MST. Dr. Rivers concludes by offering advice for survivors and acknowledging the work of trauma recovery services.
Takeaways
- Survivors of childhood adverse experiences are more likely to be re-victimized in the military.
- Virtual reality training and guided meditation can be effective tools in raising awareness and promoting empathy for survivors of MST.
- Trauma-informed medical teams are essential during perinatal care to address triggers and provide support for survivors.
- Addressing rape myth acceptance is important in understanding survivors' experiences. \
- The implementation of the Offices of Special Trial Counsel is a step towards addressing MST, but biases within the military system exist still.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Apology for Delayed Episodes
01:10 Guest Introduction: Dr. Brandy Preston-Rivers
04:23 Experiences in Basic Training and Operational Air Force
06:39 Impact of Lackland Scandal on Basic Training
08:51 Sexism and Discrimination in the Military
09:18 Pursuing Education and Becoming a Victim Advocate
19:33 Becoming a Victim Advocate and the Training Involved
22:08 Phasing Out of Victim Advocates and Future Changes
26:07 Deployment Experience as a Victim Advocate
28:30 Pursuing a Doctorate and Research on MST
30:23 The Power of Guided Meditation and Virtual Reality Training
32:14 The Importance of Support Systems for Survivors
35:00 Delayed Realization and Challenges in Reporting MST
39:28 Incompetence and Betrayal by Leadership
41:48 Improving Training Programs and Promoting Empathy
45:13 The Emotional Impact of Sexual Trauma
49:28 Alcohol and Rape Myth Acceptance in MST Incidents
52:43 Biases and Challenges in the Military System
54:00 Empathy and Offender Tendencies in the Military
55:20 Resources and Support for MST Survivors
01:08:55 The Offices of Special Trial Counsel and Potential Challenges
01:12:34 The Importance of Early Counseling and Therapy
01:15:24 Misdiagnosis and Disability Pay for Survivors
01:25:31 Connecting with Gen Z Troops and Supporting Survivors
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Veterans Crisis Line - 988, then press 1
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