Photo Credit: Cpl. Sarah Cherry/Marine Corps

Supporting Veterans During Sexual Assault Awareness Month: A Focus on Military Sexual Trauma

April marks Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month (SAAPM), a critical time to address the pervasive issue of sexual violence and its impact on individuals and communities. For veterans, service members, and their families, this month provides an opportunity to shed light on Military Sexual Trauma (MST)—a deeply personal and often underreported experience that can have long-lasting effects. At Veterans Guardian, we are committed to advocating for veterans and ensuring they receive the support and benefits they deserve.

What is Military Sexual Trauma (MST)?

Military Sexual Trauma refers to sexual assault or threatening sexual harassment experienced during military service. This can include unwanted sexual contact, coercion, or non-consensual advances. MST is not confined to a specific gender, rank, or branch of service—it affects individuals across all demographics. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), 81% of women and 43% of men report experiencing some form of MST during their military careers.

MST can occur in various settings—on or off duty, on base or off—and its effects can manifest in profound ways, including:

• Persistent nightmares or flashbacks

• Depression, anxiety, or emotional numbness

• Difficulty trusting others or maintaining relationships

• Physical health issues or substance use disorders.

The Long-Term Impact of MST

The consequences of MST often extend far beyond the initial trauma. Survivors may grapple with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, or other mental health challenges that affect their ability to work, maintain relationships, and enjoy daily life. For many veterans, the stigma surrounding MST can make it difficult to seek help. However, it is essential to remember that healing is possible with the right support.

VA Resources for MST Survivors

The VA offers a wealth of resources tailored to the unique needs of MST survivors. These services are free and confidential, regardless of whether the incident was reported at the time or documented officially. Key resources include:

1. MST Coordinators: Every VA healthcare facility has a dedicated MST Coordinator who can connect survivors with specialized care.

2. Counseling and Therapy: Individual and group therapy sessions are available to help survivors process their experiences and manage symptoms.

3. Beyond MST Mobile App: A secure app offering over 30 tools designed to help survivors cope with challenges and improve their quality of life.

4. Vet Centers: Community-based centers provide counseling for veterans and their families without requiring referrals or documentation.

For more information about MST-related care, visit the VA’s Military Sexual Trauma page or contact your local VA medical center.

Filing a Disability Claim for MST

Veterans who experience long-term mental or physical health issues due to MST may be eligible for VA disability benefits. However, navigating the claims process can be complex. Veterans Guardian specializes in assisting veterans with their claims by providing guidance on gathering evidence, completing paperwork, and advocating for fair compensation.

To strengthen an MST-related disability claim:

• Obtain a nexus letter from a qualified medical professional linking your condition to your military service.

• Include lay statements from trusted individuals who can corroborate your experiences.

Our team at Veterans Guardian is here to help you every step of the way.

How Families Can Support Survivors

The journey toward healing often involves a strong support system. Families play a crucial role in helping survivors feel safe and understood. Here are some ways loved ones can provide support:

• Educate Yourself: Learn about MST and its effects to better understand what your loved one is going through.

• Be Patient: Healing takes time, and every survivor’s journey is unique.

• Encourage Professional Help: Gently suggest resources like VA counseling services or support groups when appropriate.

Prevention Through Awareness

While supporting survivors is vital, prevention remains a cornerstone of SAAPM initiatives. This year’s theme—”STEP FORWARD: Prevent. Report. Advocate.”—calls on all members of the military community to take an active role in preventing sexual violence. Building a culture of respect and accountability within military units is essential for reducing instances of MST.

Key prevention strategies include:

• Promoting education about consent and healthy relationships.

• Encouraging bystander intervention when witnessing inappropriate behavior.

• Strengthening reporting mechanisms to ensure survivors feel safe coming forward.

How Veterans Guardian Supports You

At Veterans Guardian, we believe that no veteran should face challenges alone—especially those stemming from traumatic experiences like MST. Our mission is to empower veterans by helping them access the benefits they have earned through their service.

If you or someone you know has experienced MST:

1. Reach out for help through resources like the DoD Safe Helpline (877-995-5247) or the National Sexual Assault Hotline (800-656-HOPE).

2. Contact us at Veterans Guardian for assistance with filing a disability claim related to MST.

Together, we can honor your service by ensuring you receive the care and support you deserve.