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Overview
VA uses the term “military sexual trauma” (MST) to refer to sexual assault or threatening sexual harassment experienced during military service. MST includes any sexual activity during military service in which you are involved against your will or when unable to say no. Examples include:
Being pressured or coerced into sexual activities, such as with threats of negative treatment if you refuse to cooperate or with promises of better treatment
Sexual contact or activities without your consent, including when you were asleep or intoxicated
Being overpowered or physically forced to have sex
Being touched or grabbed in a sexual way that made you uncomfortable, including during “hazing” experiences
Comments about your body or sexual activities that you found threatening
Unwanted sexual advances that you found threatening
About Military Sexual Trauma
VIDEO
Watch the video shown above to learn more about what MST is, how it affects people who experience it and what VA services are available to MST survivors.
Explore treatment options for conditions related to MST .
Impact
People of all genders, ages, sexual orientations, racial and ethnic backgrounds, and branches of service have experienced MST. Like other types of trauma, MST can negatively affect a person’s mental and physical health, even many years later. Things you may experience could include:
Disturbing memories or nightmares
Difficulty feeling safe
Feelings of depression or numbness
Using alcohol or other drugs to numb or escape from negative feelings
Feeling isolated from other people
Difficulties with anger, irritability, or other strong emotions
Self-doubt, self-blame, or decreased self esteem
Issues with sleep
Physical health problems
If you are having any current difficulties related to MST, VA is here to support you in whatever way will help you best — from learning more about how MST affects people, to treatment that helps you cope with how MST is impacting your life currently, or if you prefer, treatment that involves discussing your experiences in more depth.
For questions about treatment and health care options related to MST, talk with an MST Coordinator at a VA health care facility near you.
Veteran Resources
Free, secure and private self-help mobile app created specifically to support the health and well-being of survivors of MST. The app has over 30 specialized tools and other features to help MST survivors cope with challenges, manage symptoms, improve their quality of life and find hope. Users do not need to create an account or be in treatment to use the app. Any personal information entered in the app is not shared with anyone, including the VA.