Rachelle Smith speaks with U.S. Air Force veteran MSTy about the long-term impact of surviving Military Sexual Trauma. She explains how unresolved trauma shaped her daily life, from panic attacks and dissociation to chronic physical pain. She also describes how books, pets, gratitude practices, and supportive relationships helped her endure years of isolation and slowly build stability.
Many ignore the lasting toll of Military Sexual Trauma and the ways survivors cope over decades. MSTy’s experience shows how connection and small daily choices can become lifelines when formal support is absent. It is never too late to begin healing and that survivors are not broken, no matter how much time has passed.
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Resources from this episode:
MSTy’s MST Crime Map: https://mstmap.com/
Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl
The Power of Positive Thinking by Dr. Norman Vincent Peale
The Untethered Soul: The Journey Beyond Yourself by Michael Alan Singer
Full Episode Notes & Full Resource List Here:
Read the trauma-informed summary, chapter breakdowns, and complete resource list on our blog: https://www.silencedvoicesmst.com/blog//military-sexual-trauma-msty-survival-part3
Support and Community:
Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
DoD Safe Helpline: https://www.sapr.mil/dod-safe-helpline
Join our Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/theadvocatesofmst
The Silenced Voices of MST is produced with the help of listeners around the world. We need your help. Donate today to help us continue to share these stories and demand accountability.
Chapters
- (00:00:00) - Introduction to MSTy's Coping and Healing Journey
- (00:02:58) - Coping Mechanisms and Healing Strategies
- (00:06:06) - Building Community and Support
- (00:08:53) - Advice for Those Facing Harassment
- (00:12:02) - Starting the Healing Journey
- (00:15:07) - The Importance of Emotional Wellness
- (00:18:08) - Conclusion and Call to Action
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