The Silent Suffering of Military Sexual Trauma: A Journey Towards Healing
1. Introduction
Military sexual trauma (MST) is a term used to describe any type of sexual assault or harassment that occurs in the military. It can include rape, sexual abuse, and unwanted sexual contact, as well as verbal or physical threats of sexual violence. MST can occur between service members, or it can be perpetrated by a civilian contractor or government employee. Regardless of the context, MST is a serious issue that affects the mental and physical health of those who experience it. In this article, we will explore the prevalence of MST in the military, the stigma surrounding it, and the journey towards healing for survivors.
2. Understanding Military Sexual Trauma (MST)
Military sexual trauma (MST) refers to any sexual assault or harassment that occurs while a person is serving in the military. This can include assault or harassment by a fellow service member, a civilian contractor, or even a military leader. MST can take many forms, including rape, sexual assault, unwanted sexual contact, and sexual harassment. It can occur in any branch of the military, regardless of rank or position.
It is important to note that MST is not a new phenomenon. In fact, it has been a problem in the military for as long as there has been a military. However, it was not until the late 20th century that the issue gained widespread attention and began to be addressed by the military. Despite this progress, MST remains a significant problem in the military today, affecting thousands of service members each year.
3. Prevalence of MST in the Military
It is estimated that approximately 13% of women and 1% of men who have served in the military have experienced some form of Military Sexual Trauma (MST). This can include sexual assault, harassment, or abuse while serving in the military. However, it is important to note that these numbers may be higher as many survivors may not report their experiences due to shame, fear of retaliation, or a lack of trust in the military justice system. Additionally, the prevalence of MST may be higher among certain subgroups within the military, such as female service members, junior enlisted personnel, and those who have served in combat zones. Despite the high prevalence of MST, it remains a hidden issue within the military and is often not discussed openly.
4. The Stigma Surrounding MST
The stigma surrounding military sexual trauma (MST) is a significant barrier to healing for many survivors. This stigma can manifest in various ways, such as shame, guilt, and self-blame. It is important to understand where this stigma comes from and how it impacts those who experience it.
One of the main sources of stigma surrounding MST is the belief that it is a weakness or character flaw on the part of the victim. This belief is perpetuated by society and the military culture itself, which often values toughness and masculinity above all else. As a result, many survivors may feel like they are failing at being a “real” soldier if they disclose their experiences of MST.
Another source of stigma is the fear of retaliation or backlash from others within the military. This fear is not unfounded, as many survivors report experiencing retaliation after disclosing their experiences of MST. This can include being ostracized by their peers, being passed over for promotions or assignments, or even facing disciplinary action.
The stigma surrounding MST can also lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness for survivors. They may feel like they cannot talk openly about what they have experienced, or that they will not be believed if they try. This isolation can exacerbate the symptoms of PTSD and other mental health conditions, making it even harder for survivors to seek help and support.
It is crucial that we work to break down the stigma surrounding MST and create a culture of understanding and support for those who have experienced it. This can start with education and awareness campaigns that challenge the harmful stereotypes and misconceptions about MST. It can also involve providing resources and support for survivors, such as counseling and therapy services, and ensuring that there are clear channels for reporting incidents of MST without fear of retaliation.
5. The Impact of MST on Mental Health
Military sexual trauma (MST) can have a profound impact on a person’s mental health. For many survivors, the experience of MST can lead to feelings of shame, guilt, and self-blame. These emotions can cause significant distress and anxiety, making it difficult for survivors to trust others or form healthy relationships. Additionally, MST can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and other mental health conditions. The trauma of MST can also affect a person’s ability to regulate their emotions, leading to mood swings and irrational behavior. It is important to recognize the impact of MST on mental health and provide appropriate support and resources for those who have experienced it.
6. The Effects of MST on Physical Health
Military sexual trauma (MST) can have a profound impact on a person’s physical health, as well as their mental health. The effects of MST can manifest in various ways, including chronic pain, gastrointestinal issues, and reproductive problems.
One of the most common physical effects of MST is chronic pain. This can be caused by the traumatic experience itself or by the resulting anxiety and stress. Chronic pain can also lead to other physical health problems, such as headaches, migraines, and back pain.
Gastrointestinal issues are another common effect of MST. These can include irritable bowel syndrome, gastritis, and other digestive disorders. The stress and anxiety caused by MST can also exacerbate existing gastrointestinal issues, making them harder to manage.
Reproductive problems are also a common physical effect of MST. Survivors may experience difficulty with fertility, miscarriages, and other pregnancy complications. Additionally, MST can increase the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), which can have serious physical consequences if left untreated.
It’s important to note that these physical effects of MST are not always immediately apparent. In fact, many survivors may not even realize that their physical health is being affected until years after the traumatic event. However, it’s crucial that we acknowledge and address these effects in order to provide proper support and healing for those who have experienced MST.
7. Coping Mechanisms for Survivors
Coping with military sexual trauma can be a difficult and lonely journey. However, there are several coping mechanisms that survivors can use to manage their symptoms and begin the healing process. These include:
1. Seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor trained in working with military sexual trauma survivors. This can provide a safe space to talk about experiences and work through feelings related to the trauma.
2. Joining a support group, either in person or online, where survivors can connect with others who have gone through similar experiences and share their journeys. This can provide a sense of community and understanding that may not be found elsewhere.
3. Engaging in self-care activities such as exercise, meditation, or spending time in nature. These practices can help reduce stress and promote overall well-being.
4. Developing healthy relationships and boundaries with others, including setting clear limits and communicating needs and feelings effectively.
5. Practicing mindfulness techniques, such as focusing on the present moment and letting go of negative thoughts and emotions.
6. Creating a positive support network of friends, family, and loved ones who are aware of the survivor’s experiences and can offer understanding and encouragement.
8. Overcoming the Stigma of MST
It is important to address the stigma surrounding Military Sexual Trauma (MST) as it can prevent survivors from seeking the help they need. Many people view MST as a taboo topic or something that only happens in war movies. However, the reality is that MST is a real issue that affects many military personnel and their families. It is crucial to understand that MST is not a choice, but rather a traumatic experience that can have long-lasting effects on a person’s mental and physical health.
One way to overcome the stigma of MST is to raise awareness about the issue. This can be done through education and advocacy efforts. By educating the public about the prevalence of MST and its impact on those who suffer from it, we can begin to break down the stigma surrounding the issue. Additionally, advocating for better resources and support systems for MST survivors can also help to reduce the stigma associated with the issue.
Another way to overcome the stigma of MST is to create a safe space for survivors to share their experiences. This can be done through support groups, counseling services, and online communities. By providing a safe and confidential space for survivors to share their experiences, we can help to normalize the conversation around MST and reduce the stigma associated with it.
It is also important to recognize that healing from MST takes time and effort. Survivors may require ongoing support and resources to help them navigate the challenges they face. By providing access to these resources, we can help to empower survivors to take control of their healing journey and overcome the stigma of MST.
9. Finding Support for MST Survivors
Military sexual trauma (MST) can have devastating effects on the mental and physical health of those who experience it. Unfortunately, many survivors feel stigmatized and isolated as a result of this trauma. However, there are resources available to help them find support and heal from their experiences.
One important resource for MST survivors is the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The VA offers a variety of programs and services specifically designed to support survivors of MST, including individual therapy, group therapy, and support groups. These programs are staffed by trained professionals who are knowledgeable about MST and can provide survivors with the care and support they need to begin their journey towards healing.
In addition to the VA, there are also a number of non-profit organizations that offer support to MST survivors. These organizations often provide additional resources and services, such as housing assistance, job training, and legal aid. Some examples of these organizations include the National Military Sexual Trauma Resource Center and the Military Rape Crisis Center.
It is important for MST survivors to know that they are not alone and that there are resources available to help them heal. By seeking out support from the VA or other non-profit organizations, survivors can begin to address the emotional and physical impacts of their experiences and work towards recovery.
10. Conclusion
In conclusion, military sexual trauma (MST) is a prevalent issue that affects many service members and veterans. It is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of MST and seek help if necessary. MST can have serious impacts on mental and physical health, and it is essential to overcome the stigma surrounding this issue. There are many resources available for survivors of MST, including support groups and counseling services. By seeking help and supporting one another, we can work towards healing and preventing further instances of MST.
