Military Sexual Trauma (MST) Survivors & Their Allies

Military sexual trauma (MST) is a term used by the Department of Veterans Affairs and by the military. MST refers to any type of sexual assault, (including sexual harassment), that occurred while the survivor was in the military. MST can happen to any service member during times of war, peace, and even during military training activities. In addition, the perpetrator can be a civilian or a service member and be of the same gender as the survivor (Nelson, 2012).

Source: Coping with Military Sexual Trauma: A Guide for Service Members

How Does CMSAC Help Survivors of MST?

If you or someone you know is not sure what to do after experiencing MST, you may want to consider speaking with a civilian sexual assault advocate. CMSAC provides confidential and free services to both survivors who have experienced some form of sexual violence and to those who know or care for a survivor, (i.e., secondary survivors). CMSAC advocates can help survivors to identify their options and provide support after MST has occurred. CMSAC advocates can accompany survivors of MST to the hospital and to local law enforcement centers (if a survivor decides to report to law enforcement after an assault occurs).

The Central Minnesota Sexual Assault Center

15 Riverside Drive NE

St. Cloud, MN 56304

(320)251-4357 (24/7 Crisis Line)

cmsac@cmsac.org

For more information about MST and what to do if you or someone you know is or has experienced MST, please click on any of the handouts below:

Virtual Healing Circle Support GroupJanuary 1, 2023

As of January 1, 2023, our virtual support group will be put on hold. You are welcome to still submit an interest form and if/when it is determined to launch Healing Circle again we will be in touch. Thank you.

Join 383 other subscribers

– 24-Hour Crisis Phone Line
– One-to-One Support Counseling
– Referrals to Supportive Services
– Hospital Advocacy
– Court Advocacy
– Law Enforcement Advocacy
– Harassment Restraining Orders
– Orders for Protection
– Safety Planning
– Professional Training
– Safe at Home Program
– Support Groups
– Human Trafficking Services

Interpretation Services Available

LGBTQ+ Welcoming and Culturally Sensitive

TTY & Accessible

CMSAC Staff are available to meet at a variety of locations for supportive services.

Serving Benton, Sherburne, Stearns, and Wright counties.

Simply call (320) 251-4357 and ask to speak with one of our sexual assault advocates. Walk-in’s for services, including support groups, are welcome.

CMSAC provides free and confidential services to all survivors/victims and concerned persons of sexual violence. If you wish, you may obtain our services anonymously. It is your choice on how much and what identifiable information you feel comfortable providing.

Central MN Sexual Assault Center