Military sexual trauma

Military sexual trauma (MST) is when someone in the military, like a soldier or a sailor, gets hurt because of sexual actions that someone else in the military did to them. This can happen to both boys and girls, men and women of any age.

Let's say you join the army and your new boss starts touching your private area when you are alone. Or they make comments that make you feel uncomfortable. This is sexual harassment and it is not allowed in the military. If you tell someone and the problem is not solved or it gets worse, then it can lead to military sexual trauma.

It can be emotional trauma, like feeling scared, depressed, or anxious. Sometimes, people may feel like they cannot trust anyone in the military anymore, even their close friends or superiors. Other times, it can be physical trauma, like getting hurt during unwanted sexual acts or being touched in a non-consensual way.

MST can happen to anyone, and it can be very difficult for the person who experiences it. It can affect different parts of their life, from work to their relationships with loved ones. When people go through MST, the military offers them help like counseling or medical care, so they can heal and recover from any injuries.

Everyone in the military has the right to work in a safe and respectful environment. It's important that if you or someone you know goes through MST, they know they can report it and get the help they need.