Military Sexual Trauma (MST): VA Claims & Ratings

What VA means by MST

VA uses "military sexual trauma" to describe sexual assault or sexual harassment experienced during military service. It can happen to anyone, of any gender, and it's more common than many people realize.

Care is available, even without a claim

VA provides free treatment for mental and physical health conditions related to MST. You don't need a disability rating, and you may be eligible even if you aren't eligible for other VA care. Every VA health care system has an MST Coordinator who can help you get connected.

Why MST claims have special evidence rules

Many survivors never filed a report, and VA recognizes that. For PTSD based on in-service personal assault, VA's rules (38 CFR § 3.304(f)(5)) let evidence come from sources other than service records. VA also must tell you about these options before it denies a claim. Examples include:

• Records from law enforcement, rape crisis centers, mental health counseling, chaplains, or clergy
• Pregnancy tests or tests for sexually transmitted infections
• Statements from family, friends, or fellow service members (see our buddy statement guide)
• "Markers," meaning behavior changes after the event, such as requests for transfer, a drop in performance or evaluations, substance use, episodes of depression, panic attacks or anxiety without an obvious cause, or unexplained economic or social changes

Conditions related to MST aren't limited to PTSD. Depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, and some physical conditions may also be connected.

How we handle these claims

With care. You decide how much you share and when. We focus on what VA actually needs, help you identify markers and supporting records, and keep your information confidential. You can also ask VA for an examiner of a particular gender.