Military Sexual Trauma and VA Ratings: What Veterans Need to Know

Military Sexual Trauma (MST) can affect every part of a Veteran’s life — from mental health to relationships, work, and overall well-being. Yet, many Veterans don’t realize how MST is recognized by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or how it can be connected to a disability claim.

Understanding how the VA reviews MST-related conditions can help you take the next step toward the care and benefits you’ve earned.

What Is MST?

Military Sexual Trauma refers to any sexual assault or repeated, threatening sexual harassment that occurred during military service. MST is not a diagnosis itself — it’s an experience that can lead to a range of physical and psychological conditions.

The VA recognizes that trauma from MST can cause lasting effects such as:

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

• Depression and anxiety

• Difficulty sleeping or nightmares

• Physical health problems (chronic pain, headaches, or stomach issues)

• Substance use or difficulty maintaining relationships

It’s important to know: you do not need to have reported the incident at the time for it to be acknowledged by the VA. Many survivors didn’t feel safe to report it — and the VA takes that into account.

How the VA Rates MST-Related Conditions

Because MST itself isn’t rated as a disability, the VA bases your rating on the mental or physical health conditions caused by MST — such as PTSD, anxiety, or depression.

Your rating reflects how much these symptoms interfere with your daily life and ability to work:

• 10–30%: Symptoms that occasionally affect work or social interactions.

• 50%: Frequent issues like panic attacks, memory loss, or difficulty maintaining relationships.

• 70–100%: Severe, persistent symptoms that make it hard or impossible to hold a job or manage daily activities.

No two MST claims are alike. Each one depends on the details of your experience, medical evidence, and how the trauma continues to impact your life.

Proving an MST Claim

For many Veterans, one of the hardest parts is proving the connection between their service and their current condition — especially if there isn’t an official report.

The VA understands this and allows for “markers” — indirect evidence that supports your claim. Examples include:

• Sudden changes in performance or behavior

• Requests for transfer or changes in duty assignment

• Declining work evaluations or disciplinary actions

• Medical or counseling records soon after the event

• Statements from friends, family, or fellow service members who noticed changes

These markers can help the VA understand your experience even if formal documentation doesn’t exist.

Why Support Matters When Filing an MST Claim

Filing an MST-related claim can feel emotional and overwhelming. It asks Veterans to revisit some of their most difficult memories — often while navigating complex paperwork and requirements.

Having guidance through that process can make a world of difference. Working with someone who understands MST claims can help you:

• Collect the right evidence and supporting statements

• Write a strong personal statement

• Understand what the VA looks for in MST-related claims

• Avoid common mistakes that lead to delays or denials

You don’t have to face it alone. There’s strength in asking for help and support when it’s time to move forward.

Taking the Next Step

Healing from MST is a deeply personal process — and securing the benefits you’ve earned is part of that healing. Whether you’re filing for the first time or revisiting a past claim, help is available.

Our team can guide you through the process, explain what to expect, and ensure your claim tells your story clearly and accurately.

You’ve already done the hard part by surviving. Let us help you with what comes next.