Military Sexual Trauma (MST) is a profound and deeply personal subject that affects many veterans. For those who have experienced MST, the trauma can leave lasting impacts on mental and physical health, even years after the event. Fortunately, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers numerous resources to help veterans cope with and heal from MST. Leah Bucholz explores what MST is, its effects, and the resources available for veterans seeking support.
What is Military Sexual Trauma (MST)?
Military Sexual Trauma refers to sexual assault or repeated sexual harassment that occurs during military service. According to the VA, MST includes:
- Unwanted sexual advances or sexual activities that occur against the individual’s will, such as being pressured or coerced through threats or promises of better treatment.
- Sexual activities involving physical force or incapacitation due to being asleep, intoxicated, or otherwise unable to give consent.
- Unwelcome sexual contact or comments that make the individual feel uncomfortable or unsafe, including hazing experiences with a sexual nature.
It’s important to note that MST is not confined to any specific demographic. Both men and women in the military can and do experience MST, though national data indicates that one in three women and one in fifty men report experiencing MST when screened at VA facilities.
How MST Affects Veterans
MST is not a diagnosis in itself but rather an experience that can lead to mental or physical health conditions. Its effects vary from person to person, depending on prior trauma history, personal resilience, and available support systems.
Some veterans recover with little professional intervention, while others may experience lasting challenges. Common conditions linked to MST include:
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Depression and other mood disorders
- Substance abuse disorders
Other markers or signs that a veteran may have experienced MST can include difficulty sleeping, behavioral changes, unplanned pregnancies, or the onset of substance abuse during or after military service.
MST Resources Offered by the VA
The VA is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for veterans affected by MST. Below are some of the key resources and services available.
MST Coordinators
Every VA Medical Center has an MST Coordinator who serves as a primary point of contact for veterans seeking support. These coordinators help connect veterans with the resources they need, from counseling to specialized treatment programs.
Specialized Counseling Services
MST-related counseling is available through VA Medical Centers and community-based Vet Centers. Counseling is offered in a variety of formats, including one-on-one therapy and group sessions.
Evidence-Based Therapies
The VA offers several evidence-based therapies specifically designed to address trauma, including:
- Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE): Helps veterans process traumatic memories by gradually confronting them in a safe environment.
- Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT): Focuses on changing harmful beliefs related to trauma.
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): Uses guided eye movements to help process and integrate traumatic memories.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Addresses negative thought patterns and behaviors.
- Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT): Helps manage intense emotions and improve interpersonal relationships.
Mobile App Support
The VA provides a free and secure mobile app specifically for MST survivors. This app offers over 30 tools to help manage symptoms, cope with challenges, and improve overall well-being.
Eligibility for MST-Related Care
The VA has prioritized making MST-related care widely accessible. Eligibility criteria include:
- Discharge Status: Veterans with “Other Than Honorable” or “Uncharacterized” discharges may still qualify for MST-related care.
- National Guard and Reserve Members: Certain Reserve and National Guard members may also be eligible.
- Service Requirements: Standard length-of-service requirements do not apply to MST-related care.
Veterans are encouraged to contact their nearest VA Medical Center or Vet Center to discuss eligibility and begin the process of accessing care.
Taking the First Step
Acknowledging and addressing MST can be challenging, especially for veterans accustomed to the military’s “hard charger” culture that often discourages showing vulnerability. However, seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Here’s how veterans can start their journey toward healing:
- Contact an MST Coordinator: Reach out to the MST Coordinator at your nearest VA facility.
- Explore VA Resources Online: Visit va.gov to access fact sheets, treatment options, and coping resources.
- Download the MST Mobile App: Use the app to explore self-help tools in a private and secure setting.
- Schedule an Appointment: Speak with a VA provider or counselor about your experiences and begin discussing treatment options.
Breaking the Silence
Many veterans who experienced MST may hesitate to come forward, fearing judgment or dismissal. Others may not recognize the lasting effects of MST on their mental or physical health. It’s crucial to remember that help is available, and healing is possible.
The VA’s commitment to MST survivors ensures that no veteran has to face these challenges alone. By leveraging the resources and support systems in place, veterans can begin to reclaim their well-being and lead fulfilling lives.
For those struggling with MST, taking the first step may be the hardest — but it’s also the most important. Reach out to the VA, explore the available resources, and don’t hesitate to ask for help. You are not alone.
Also read: How the Bilateral Factor Affects Your VA Disability Calculation
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