Does MST (Military Sexual Trauma) affect soldiering?

SPC Lukas Jones — Sat, 18 Apr 2015 17:23:55 -0400

Here is some background for you all:

When I was in AIT, I was sexually assaulted. I'm not going to go into detail about what happened as it is in the past. I recently started seeing a psychologist and MST specialist at the VA about this and he helped me to identify that the reason I am overweight and constantly fail my APFT is due to my MST. We figured that in my warped reasoning, if I stopped working out and gained weight, I would not be as appealing and therefore less likely to have this happen to me again.

As I approach my ETS date, of corse I want to stay in the Army. The military is the best decision I have made with my life. But that APFT Fail flag is stopping me from signing another contract and continuing my service. My command has been very patient and understanding with me. But I know I can't just see a MST Specialist once and be cured, hop back on that treadmill and turn into a PT Stud overnight.

Do you think that commanders should be lenient towards MST victims like me or is it time to get out and hit the unemployment line?

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 18 at 2015 5:31 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 18 Apr 2015 17:31:29 -0400

As a Detachment NCOIC, if one of my Soldiers had experienced a trauma such as yours, and it affected their weight and APFT, I know I would certainly work with the Soldier and take everything into account before I would sign the line to chapter out of the service. Since you are seeing a therapist, that is one check mark for you, but how is the progression of your weight loss and APFT going? Are you actively trying to make improvements in those areas? If so, I would (if I were your NCOIC) take that into consideration as well.

Response by CSM Michael J. Uhlig made Apr 18 at 2015 7:40 PM

CSM Michael J. Uhlig — Sat, 18 Apr 2015 19:40:35 -0400

I am not familiar with that title and I appreciate your courage to share your personal situation with us all, it takes personal courage to do just that!

I do not know how you feel as I have not been through this however, I do know need to pass this record APFT to remain in service.....It's great that your counselor helped you identify why you've gained the weight, now it's time to get the counselor to share how a more fit Soldier is better able to protect himself, get you on the track to peak physical fitness.