Evidence-based treatments for PTSD symptoms resulting from military sexual trauma in women Veterans: A systematic review

Abstract: Military sexual trauma (MST) can encompass sexual assault and harassment and has been shown to be pervasive across militaries, disproportionately affecting women. The most common psychological consequence is posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This study sought to synthesize the treatments that demonstrate effectiveness in treating PTSD symptoms resulting from MST in women Veterans. A total of 998 papers were initially identified, of which 12 met inclusion criteria. Seven interventions were studied, and all reported meaningful impact on PTSD symptoms. CPT demonstrated the strongest published evidence base, with emerging evidence for TCTSY. Future attempts should be made to facilitate international comparisons, with a need for a consistent operationalization of MST. A focus on the sequalae resulting from MST beyond PTSD may also allow for developing targeted adjuvant interventions that may improve overall treatment response. Link to full paper.