April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), and Military Families Speak Out (MFSO) is committed to supporting and raising awareness for our service members who have experienced sexual trauma during their time in the military. Sexual assault and harassment that occurs during military service is referred to as Military Sexual Trauma (MST).

A 2014 study found that about 1 in 20 women and about just under 1 in 100 men have been the victim of MST during their time in the military. However, many of those who are affected by MST while serving do not report and are oftentimes worried about the stigma attached to their suffering. This fear can cause increased isolation, making it hard to reach and treat those who have survived MST. 

If you or someone you know has a history of Military Sexual Trauma, please contact IAVA’s Rapid Response Referral Program (RRRP). Our trained social workers are available to connect veterans to best in class resources with care and sensitivity, and will support veterans every step of the way. To get connected to RRRP, please call 1-855-91-RAPID, emailtransition@iava.org, or click here.