Military Sexual Trauma (MST)

Understanding Military Sexual Trauma (MST)

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Military Sexual Trauma (MST) is a serious and often underreported issue affecting service members during their time in the military. Defined by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), MST encompasses experiences of sexual harassment and sexual assault that occur during military service, regardless of a person’s gender, rank, or branch of the military.

What is MST?

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MST includes a broad range of behaviors, such as:

• Unwanted sexual advances or verbal harassment

• Inappropriate or offensive comments or behavior of a sexual nature

• Forced sexual activity, such as rape or attempted rape

• Threats of negative consequences for refusing sexual advances

• Any sexual activity where the individual is coerced, unable to consent, or forced against their will

Both men and women in the military can experience MST, and the effects can be long-lasting and deeply impactful. Importantly, MST can happen during active duty, training, or any period of service, and it affects individuals from all walks of life.

The Impact of MST

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The trauma resulting from MST can lead to a wide range of emotional, psychological, and physical challenges, many of which persist long after the service member’s time in the military. Some common effects include:

• Mental Health Issues: MST survivors may develop conditions such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and substance abuse.

• Relationship Struggles: MST can affect personal relationships, leading to trust issues, social isolation, and difficulties in intimacy.

• Physical Symptoms: Survivors of MST may experience chronic pain, sleep problems, and other physical symptoms that are tied to the emotional distress caused by their trauma.

For some veterans, the psychological and emotional toll of MST can contribute to long-term difficulties in transitioning back into civilian life. The effects of MST can also overlap with other forms of trauma, including combat trauma, exacerbating mental health struggles.

VA Resources and Support for MST Survivors

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Recognizing the need for specialized care, the VA offers a variety of services to veterans who have experienced MST. These services include:

• Free MST-related healthcare: Veterans who have experienced MST are eligible for free healthcare services related to the treatment of conditions linked to their trauma. These services are available through the VA, regardless of whether the veteran qualifies for other VA benefits or reported the incident at the time it occurred.

• Counseling and Therapy: Both individual and group therapy options are available to help veterans cope with and recover from MST. Specialized counselors, including those with experience in trauma recovery, offer support in navigating the emotional and psychological challenges caused by MST.

• Support Networks: The VA and other organizations, including Dwyer Programs, provide peer support groups where survivors can connect with others who understand their experiences, helping to break the isolation and foster a community of healing.

How Dwyer Programs Can Help

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At the Dwyer Programs, we are committed to supporting veterans who have experienced Military Sexual Trauma. Through our Vet2Vet peer-to-peer support model, veterans are connected with others who understand the unique challenges of military life and the trauma that may accompany it. Our programs are designed to provide:

• Safe spaces for veterans to share their experiences and feel understood

• Access to resources, from counseling to specialized services

• Ongoing community support for veterans and their families

Breaking the Silence Around MST

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For many survivors, the stigma surrounding MST can prevent them from seeking help or sharing their experiences. At Dwyer, we believe that breaking the silence is crucial to healing. We encourage veterans who have experienced MST to reach out to us or other support networks to begin their journey toward recovery. You are not alone, and help is available.

How to Get Help

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If you or someone you know has experienced MST, please know that support is available. The VA’s MST Coordinator program can connect you with local resources, and the Dwyer Programs are always here to help veterans and their families find the care and support they need.

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Contact us for more information on our peer support groups or to connect with resources in your community.