Eating Disorder in the Military

Binge-Eating Disorder Among Veterans: A Growing Concern

While mental health challenges like PTSD and depression among veterans are widely recognized, issues related to disordered eating often go unnoticed. One such issue is binge-eating disorder (BED), a condition that is characterized by consuming large amounts of food in a short period, often accompanied by feelings of a lack of control, guilt, or distress. Though binge-eating disorder may be less prevalent among active duty service members compared to civilian populations, findings in veterans tell a more complex story.

Prevalence of Binge-Eating Disorder in Veterans

Studies indicate that veterans, particularly those who have experienced trauma, may be more susceptible to developing binge-eating disorder. Research on U.S. military veterans found that:

• 1.2% to 5.2% of women veterans and 0.3% to 2.9% of male veterans report symptoms consistent with binge-eating disorder.

• Sub-threshold cases, where individuals experience binge-eating episodes without meeting the full criteria for diagnosis, are also common. One study found that 35% of women veterans reported binge-eating episodes, highlighting the broader spectrum of disordered eating within this community.

These numbers suggest that while binge-eating disorder may not be as prevalent in active duty service members, it becomes a more significant issue for veterans, particularly women.

The Link Between Trauma and Binge-Eating Disorder

Veterans who have experienced traumatic events or have been diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) appear to be at greater risk for developing binge-eating disorder. Trauma, whether from combat experiences or other life-threatening situations, can lead to a range of mental health challenges, including using food as a coping mechanism for stress or emotional pain. This link between PTSD and disordered eating highlights the complex nature of trauma and its impact on physical as well as mental well-being.

Sub-threshold Cases in Veterans

One of the more concerning aspects of binge-eating disorder in the veteran population is the

prevalence of sub-threshold cases. These are instances where veterans experience binge-eating episodes but do not meet all of the criteria for a formal diagnosis of BED. These subthreshold episodes are still harmful and can significantly impact a veteran’s mental and physical health, leading to weight gain, feelings of shame, and further mental health struggles.

Women veterans, in particular, report higher rates of subthreshold binge-eating, which may suggest that this issue is more pervasive than initially recognized. Unfortunately, many veterans may not seek treatment for these behaviors due to the stigma around eating disorders or the prioritization of other mental health concerns, such as PTSD or depression.

The Importance of Early Intervention and Support

At the Dwyer Programs, we are dedicated to providing veterans with the resources and support they need to address all aspects of their well-being, including disordered eating. Through our Vet2Vet peer support program, we connect veterans with others who understand their struggles, offering a safe space to discuss concerns like binge-eating disorder and its underlying causes.

We believe that early intervention is key to preventing the escalation of disordered eating behaviors into more severe mental and physical health issues. By raising awareness about binge-eating disorder and other mental health concerns, we aim to break the stigma and encourage veterans to seek the help they deserve.

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of binge-eating disorder or any other mental health challenges, please reach out to the Dwyer Programs for support. You are not alone—help is available, and recovery is possible.