Seaman Lisa Spencer
United States Navy Veteran
Women’s Advocate Devil Dog USA

Lisa suffers from (MST) Military Sexual Trauma, (PTSD) Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and drug addiction. Her MST stirs from being raped while on active duty and PTSD spurs from abusive relationships. Her drug addiction is a result of those predicaments, which she felt was her only outlet.

Lisa joined the military at a young age, full of hope and patriotism, but once her MST occurred, her views changed. She started making bad choices at work, along with her relationships, which spiraled over the years. Once she hit rock bottom, she was able to realize where her life was going and began to make amends. One such change, was finding new love, but even that was not enough because her trauma would not allow her to escape the pain.

These dilemmas have haunted Lisa over the years, but with medication, therapy and numerous outlets she is now in a better state. Lisa is a proud recent homeowner, has found solace in herself and advocates on behalf of other women and those with similar afflictions she has. Her current endeavors include: podcasting a recovery themed weekly show, starting the #EndTheStigma campaign, with her work at Devil Dog USA, and a yearly Mental Health stand down she sponsors in Canada, which she hopes to bring to New York City next year.

Lisa is sharing her story, because she wants you to know, you are not suffering alone. There are resources and people willing to help you, but you have to reach out and ask for it. Finally, she hopes this will help you want to seek help before it is too late.

If you are a Veteran or an individual with a mental health condition and would like to be featured in an article, please send us an email at ceo@devildogusainc.org.