Effects of Military Sexual Trauma (MST)

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Frequently Asked Questions About Military Sexual Trauma

1. What if a veteran does not meet general eligibility guidelines?
Even if a veteran does not meet general eligibility requirements based on his/her length of service or other circumstances, he/she may be eligible for treatment due to an injury, illness or other psychological condition as a result of a physical assault, battery or harassment of a sexual nature while in the military.

2. What are MST eligibility requirements for VHA?
A veteran does not need to be service-connected nor have previously reported a sexually traumatic event to be eligible for MST services. Any veteran, male or female, who received an other-than-dishonorable discharge, regardless of their time in the military, is eligible for treatment of emotional or physical injury as a result of the event. If a veteran has questions about eligibility, he/she should speak directly with a VA Medical Center or Vet Center contact listed on this page for further information.

3. What about Reservists and National Guardsmen who experience MST while on active duty for training?
Reservists and members of the National Guard may receive treatment for the medical and psychological effects of sexual trauma they experienced while on active duty or active duty for training status. Please refer to your local medical center eligibility department or Medical Center MST coordinator for more information.

4. What if the Veteran does not meet eligibility criteria for either VHA or the Vet Center?
The veteran with a dishonorable discharge may want to consult with the local MST Coordinator, Vet Center or Veterans Service Organization to see what services may be available in the community. Veterans who feel they received a dishonorable discharge as a result of MST can also appeal for a change in discharge status.

LINKS
• National Readjustment Counseling Service
• VISN3 Women Veterans Resources