Breaking the Silence: Legal Support for MST and PTSD Disability Claims

Congruence Law Advocates for Veterans Facing Invisible Wounds and Systemic Barriers

Military service leaves many veterans with lasting trauma—some physical, some psychological, and some deeply personal. Military Sexual Trauma (MST) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) are among the most difficult injuries to identify and prove, especially when official documentation is incomplete or nonexistent. For too long, these invisible wounds were misunderstood, overlooked, or dismissed by the very institutions tasked with protecting those who served.

At Congruence Law, P.C., we help veterans build strong, evidence-supported claims for service-connected PTSD and MST—even when the record is silent. We understand the sensitivity, stigma, and legal complexity involved, and we advocate with both compassion and precision to help survivors obtain the recognition, care, and compensation they deserve.

What Is Military Sexual Trauma (MST)?

MST refers to sexual assault or sexual harassment experienced during military service. This can include:

• Rape or attempted rape

• Unwanted sexual contact or touching

• Threats or pressure for sexual favors

• Repeated, threatening sexual harassment

• Invasion of personal space, stalking, or degrading behavior

MST is not a diagnosis itself, but it can lead to PTSD, depression, anxiety, and other serious mental health conditions. These conditions may be eligible for VA disability compensation when linked to service.

Why MST and PTSD Claims Are Uniquely Challenging

MST and PTSD claims often face skepticism or denial because:

• Many incidents are unreported due to stigma, retaliation, or lack of trust

• No criminal or disciplinary records exist, making documentation sparse

• Symptoms may develop years later, complicating service connection

• Command structures may have ignored or enabled abuse, leaving survivors with no formal support

The VA recognizes these challenges and allows alternative forms of evidence—including lay statements and behavioral markers—to support a diagnosis and establish a service connection.

Building a Strong MST or PTSD Claim

At Congruence Law, we work closely with veterans and clinicians to build claims that satisfy VA standards even in the absence of direct documentation. We focus on:

1. Lay Statements. Written statements from the veteran, family members, friends, or former service members can describe:

• Changes in mood, behavior, or performance

• Withdrawal, substance use, or anxiety following the event

• Conversations about the incident, even years later

2. Behavioral Markers. VA regulations allow for indirect indicators that an MST or traumatic event occurred, including:

• Requests for transfer

• Disciplinary issues or performance declines

• Medical or mental health visits soon after service

• Substance abuse or self-isolation

• Relationship breakdowns

3. Medical Expert Reports. We work with psychologists, psychiatrists, and trauma specialists to:

• Diagnose PTSD or related disorders

• Provide a “nexus opinion” linking the condition to military service

• Rebut harmful conclusions in VA exams (C&P reports)

4. Trauma-Informed Representation. We ensure every part of the process is handled with discretion, respect, and cultural sensitivity. You don’t have to tell your story more than necessary—and you don’t have to face the VA alone.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid in MST/PTSD Claims

1. Assuming a Denial Means the Claim Is Over. Many MST and PTSD claims are denied initially. Strong appeals—especially with legal support—can reverse bad decisions.

2. Filing Without Supportive Statements or Evaluations. Even without service records, a powerful personal statement, buddy letter, or private medical opinion can tip the scale.

3. Delaying Filing Due to Trauma or Shame. While understandable, delays can limit benefits or trigger doubts. We help veterans file sensitively and strategically, even years after separation.

4. Overreliance on VA C&P Exams. Compensation & Pension exams are often flawed. We can help identify bias, omissions, or misdiagnoses—and supply expert counter-opinions.

5. Navigating the System Alone. VA law is complex. A focused legal strategy can make the difference between a denial and a life-changing award.

Why Congruence Law

We don’t treat MST and PTSD claims like routine disability cases. These are deeply personal matters involving survivors who have already endured far too much. At Congruence, we provide trauma-informed, legally sound advocacy to help veterans rebuild their lives with dignity, recognition, and the benefits they are entitled to.

If you are a veteran struggling with the aftermath of MST or PTSD and have been denied the care or compensation you deserve, contact us at veterans@congruencelaw.com.

You’ve carried this long enough. Let us help carry it with you—toward justice, healing, and closure.

Would you like this article formatted for a survivor resource guide or paired with a “how to document behavioral markers” checklist?