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The debilitating symptoms of military sexual trauma (MST) can last a lifetime if left untreated. The psychological and physical effects of trauma resulting from sexual assault or harassment during military service can lead to the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and related conditions.
MST Psychotherapy Approaches
Fortunately, the VA offers MST disability compensation and a range of evidence-based treatments for MST, including psychotherapy approaches, medications, alternative therapies, and support systems. Veterans can also seek treatment from private healthcare providers that specialize in trauma-informed care.
The VA supports the use of evidence-based psychotherapy for MST-related conditions, particularly for depression, PTSD, and anxiety disorders. Some of the most effective approaches include:
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
A widely used treatment for PTSD and trauma-related disorders, including MST, CPT focuses on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns surrounding the trauma.
By examining beliefs surrounding guilt, trust, safety, and control, survivors can reframe distressing thoughts and reduce their emotional burden. Studies have shown CPT to be highly effective in decreasing MST symptoms and improving overall mental well-being.
Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE)
PE helps MST survivors confront traumatic memories and situations they have been avoiding.
Through repeated exposure to traumatic memories in a safe and controlled environment, veterans can gradually desensitize their emotional responses, reducing the distress associated with these memories. Studies suggest PE is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing severe avoidance symptoms and emotional numbing.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
A structured therapy that helps individuals process traumatic experiences by focusing on bilateral stimulation, typically through guided eye movements.
EMDR aids in reorganizing traumatic memories, reducing their emotional intensity, and promoting adaptive processing of distressing experiences. EMDR is established as an effective treatment for PTSD and is increasingly used for MST survivors.
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)
TF-CBT is another effective therapy designed to treat trauma, including MST, in veterans. TF-CBT combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with trauma-sensitive interventions to help veterans develop coping skills, process traumatic memories, and restore a sense of safety and empowerment.
MST Medication Options
In addition to psychotherapy, medications may play a crucial role in managing MST-related symptoms. Some standard options include:
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
SSRIs, such as sertraline (Zoloft) and paroxetine (Paxil), are commonly prescribed for PTSD, depression, and anxiety related to MST. These medications act to increase brain serotonin levels, helping to regulate mood and alleviate distressing symptoms.
Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)
SNRIs, such as venlafaxine (Effexor) and duloxetine (Cymbalta), function similarly to SSRIs but also target norepinephrine. These prescription medications may be particularly effective in individuals experiencing both emotional and physical symptoms of PTSD, such as chronic pain and hypervigilance.
Prazosin
Prazosin is often prescribed to MST survivors experiencing nightmares and sleep disturbances associated with PTSD. Originally developed to treat hypertension, prazosin has been found to reduce the frequency and intensity of trauma-related nightmares, improving overall sleep quality.
Mood Stabilizers and Antipsychotics
In cases where individuals experience severe mood instability, agitation, or dissociation, healthcare providers may prescribe mood stabilizers (e.g., lamotrigine, valproate) or atypical antipsychotics (e.g., quetiapine, risperidone) to help manage symptoms. These medications are typically used when standard treatments alone are not sufficient.
Alternative Therapies for MST
Many MST survivors benefit from holistic and alternative treatments that target both mental and physical health. Some options include:
Yoga and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)
Yoga and MBSR emphasize mindfulness, breath control, and physical movement to help MST survivors reconnect with their bodies and regulate emotions. Both MBSR and yoga therapy have been shown to reduce PTSD symptoms, anxiety, and depression while promoting relaxation and self-awareness.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture has been used to alleviate symptoms of PTSD and anxiety. Acupuncture may help reduce stress, improve sleep, and enhance overall well-being in veterans with MST.
Music and Art Therapy
Creative therapies, like music and art therapy, provide MST survivors with non-verbal outlets to process and express their trauma. Engaging in artistic expression can foster emotional healing, self-discovery, and personal growth, especially for those who struggle with traditional talk therapy.
Animal-Assisted Therapy
Animal-assisted therapy involves interaction with trained therapy animals to provide emotional support and companionship. Studies have shown that engaging with animals can reduce symptoms of PTSD, decrease stress levels, and improve emotional resilience in MST survivors.
MST Support Groups and Peer Counseling
Support groups and peer counseling programs offer MST survivors a sense of community and shared understanding. Connecting with other veterans who have experienced similar trauma can reduce feelings of isolation, provide emotional validation, and foster healing.
Many veteran service organizations and mental health agencies offer peer support groups specifically for MST survivors.
VA Benefits for MST Survivors
The VA provides disability and healthcare benefits for veterans who have experienced MST. VA benefits cover a range of MST-related services, including mental health treatment, medical care, and disability compensation.
Talk to a Veteran Disability Lawyer at Gang & Associates Today
Since MST disability claims can be complex, it is strongly recommended that veterans seek assistance from a VA disability lawyer specializing in MST disability claims to ensure they receive the support and benefits they are entitled to.
To learn more about preparing your MST VA disability claim, including gathering evidence, obtaining an MST diagnosis, and MST nexus letters, read our free eBook, MST Disability Claims: An Essential Guide for U.S. Veterans.