Military sexual trauma (MST) 
Military sexual trauma MST refers to sexual assault or repeated, threatening sexual harassment that happened while a Veteran was in the military. This can happen to both women and men. If you were involved in any sexual act against your will during your time in the military , you may have experienced MST. Find out how to access our free services that can help you recover. 

How do I talk to someone right now? 
If you're a Veteran in crisis or concerned about one , connect with our caring, qualified Veterans Crisis Line responders for confidential help. Many of them are Veterans themselves. This service is private, free, and available 24/7. To connect with a Veterans Crisis Line responder anytime day or night : Call 800 - 273 - 8255 , then select 1. Start a confidential Veterans chat. Text 838255. If you have hearing loss , call TTY : 800 - 799 - 4889. You can also : Call 911. Go to the nearest emergency room. Go directly to your nearest VA medical center. It doesn't matter what your discharge status is or if you're enrolled in VA health care. Find your nearest VA medical center 

What services does VA provide for Veterans who ve experienced MST? 
We provide free, confidential private counseling and treatment to male and female Veterans for both mental and physical health problems linked to MST. Our services include : MST - related treatment and support at every VA medical center , and providers knowledgeable about treating the aftereffects of MST at each facility Specialized outpatient mental health services focused on sexual trauma at many VA locations Counseling with professionals who are specially trained to treat conditions related to sexual trauma at Vet Centers across the country Specialized MST treatment in a residential live - in or inpatient setting including gender - specific programs for Veterans who need more intensive care Treatment and support for health conditions linked to MST , like : Posttraumatic stress disorder PTS

user: I'm here about MST

assistant: Okay, Military sexual trauma MST refers to sexual assault or repeated , threatening sexual harassment that happened while a Veteran was in the military . This can happen to both women and men .

assistant: Were you involved in any sexual act against your will during your time in the military?

user: no, not me

user: how can we talk to someone privately?

assistant: You can connect with our Veterans Crisis Line responders for confidential help. Many of them are Veterans themselves and available 24/7. This service is private and free.

user: and if someone feels they may have MST, where do they start?

assistant: If you feel you may have experienced MST . We can help you access our free services that can help you recover .

user: can we do it by phone?

assistant: Yes you can. To connect with a Veterans Crisis Line responder anytime day or night : Call 800 - 273 - 8255 then select 1 .. We also have a confidential Veterans chat.

user: can we select a provider or do they make us talk to the next available person?

assistant: You can ask for a provider of a specific gender if that makes you feel more comfortable . If you don't have a VA primary care provider call your nearest VA medical center and ask to speak to the MST coordinator and they will help you.

user: Do you have anything I can look at about services you offer?

assistant: Yes, we have a Guide to VA Mental Health Services PDF