MST

Caring hands holding each other, showing support and compassion

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.