Day Thirteen: Military Sexual Trauma
The VA uses the term “military sexual trauma” (MST) to refer to sexual assault or threatening sexual harassment experienced during military service. MST includes any sexual activity during military service in which someone is involved against their will or when they are unable to say no.
Examples include:
- Being pressured or coerced into sexual activities
- Being overpowered or physically forced to have sex
- Unwanted sexual advances that were found threatening
- Sexual contact or activity without consent, including when asleep or intoxicated
People of all genders, ages, sexual orientations, racial and ethnic backgrounds, and branches of service have experienced MST. Things experienced could include:
- Difficulty feeling safe
- Disturbing memories or nightmares and issues with sleep
- Difficulties with anger, irritability, or other strong emotions
- Feeling depressed or numb, using alcohol or other drugs to escape these feelings
Like other types of trauma, MST can negatively affect a person’s mental and physical health, even many years later.
Every year during the 16 days from November 25 through December 10, Zonta Clubs around the world participate in the Zonta Says No to Violence Against Women campaign.
The graphics shared during this year’s campaign contain information about domestic violence, depicting some of the signs, as well as the myths surrounding it, and the far-reaching impacts it has on those who suffer from it and/or witness domestic violence.
Clinton County Daily News.com will run this campaign through December 10.