MST

Military Sexual Trauma (MST)

Military Sexual Trauma (MST) refers to sexual assault or repeated, threatening sexual harassment experienced during military service. MST can happen to anyone — regardless of rank, branch, or gender — and often goes unreported due to fear, stigma, or retaliation. Many survivors carry these invisible wounds long after their service has ended.

MST

MST includes: Rape, unwanted sexual touching, threatening or offensive remarks, and pressure for sexual favors. These experiences may occur on or off duty, in combat or non-combat zones, and often involve abuse of power by fellow service members or superiors.

Symptoms of MST

Psychological Symptoms

  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Depression or persistent sadness
  • Anxiety and panic attacks
  • Nightmares or flashbacks
  • Guilt, shame, or self-blame
  • Emotional numbness or detachment

Behavioral Symptoms

  • Substance use or misuse (drugs, alcohol)
  • Social withdrawal or isolation
  • Difficulty trusting others or forming relationships
  • Risky or self-destructive behaviors
  • Hypervigilance or exaggerated startle response

Physical Symptoms

  • Chronic pain (headaches, stomach issues, etc.)
  • Sleep disturbances or insomnia
  • Fatigue or low energy
  • Eating disorders or changes in appetite

Cognitive Symptoms

  • Difficulty concentrating or memory problems
  • Negative thoughts about self or the world
  • Suicidal ideation or hopelessness

Treatments of MST

At The Pink Berets, we understand that healing from MST requires more than clinical care. It requires safety, trust, and a community that believes you. Our treatment is built around four pillars:

1. Stabilization and Safety

  • Crisis intervention and suicide prevention
  • 24/7 clinical support in a calm, nature-based environment

2. Trauma-Informed Therapy

  • Evidence-based, individualized therapy plans
  • Therapists specially trained in military trauma and sexual assault

3. Empowerment and Reintegration

  • Skills-based recovery, peer support, and self-advocacy
  • Reconnection to identity, family, and community

4. Ongoing Support and Aftercare

  • Transition plans, outpatient care, and alumni engagement
  • Long-term recovery coaching and virtual support groups

Why it matters

  • Veterans who experience MST are significantly more likely to develop PTSD, depression, substance use disorders, and to experience homelessness or suicidal ideation.
  • MST survivors are nine times more likely to attempt suicide than other veterans without MST history.
  • According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 50 men who use VA healthcare report experiencing MST.