Military Sexual Trauma (MST) Information Session
Open Arms hosted a Military Sexual Trauma (MST) Information Session as part of enhancing workforce capability, knowledge and awareness for victim-survivors who have experienced MST. The session brought together Open Arms staff, DVA colleagues and external stakeholders to hear from leading experts, including:
- Dr Alexandra Heber, Chief of Psychiatry, Veterans Affairs Canada and Associate Professor, McMaster University
- Dr Margaret McKinnon, Professor and Associate Chair (Research), Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neuroscience, McMaster University.
Key highlights include:
- Definition of Military Sexual Misconduct and Military Sexual Trauma;
- Insights into Canada's approach to Military Sexual Trauma, including history, data, and research;
- Awareness considerations, including military cultural competency, and long-term impacts; and
- Treatment pathways for veterans, including trauma-informed care, and supporting safe disclosures.
Open Arms continues to strengthen our understanding and response to MST to support veterans and families of veterans.
Note: This information session relates to Military Sexual Trauma (MST). While the recording does not contain detailed descriptions of traumatic experiences, some viewers may find the subject matter sensitive or experience emotional responses when reflecting on MST-related concepts and impacts. If you are impacted by the content, please consider seeking support from trusted individuals or professional support services.
Call Open Arms for 24/7 crisis support on 1800 011 046. If you're in immediate danger, please call 000.