Association Between PTSD and Eating Disorders in Veterans | Eating Disorder Hope

Members of our military have fought for and defended our freedom at tremendous cost. The nature of serving in the military exposes an individual to a tremendous level of stress due to many external pressures, such as the demand to perform physically, environmental changes, prolonged separation from loved ones and family members, and more. Military members who have been involved in any facet of war and fighting are also exposed to an unprecedented level of challenges and stress.

Connection Between PTSD and Military Veterans

Even once leaving the military, veterans will often continue to struggle with the degree of stress experienced during their time of service. Individuals who have been exposed to traumatic situations or stressful life changes, particularly military members involved with life-threatening experiences, may be more susceptible to developing post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD. Many individuals who have served in the military may find that PTSD is something that will develop after their active service and duty and upon reintegrating into civilian life.

PTSD can be a debilitating condition to live with, as it affects a person behaviorally, psychologically, socially, and biologically. A veteran struggling with PTSD may experience symptoms such as flashbacks of their traumatic experiences in the military, emotional detachment, nightmares, severe anxiety and more. A veteran struggling with PTSD may find that certain events, sounds, or experiences trigger an episode of fear, anxiety, isolation, hostility or even self-destructive behaviors.

How PTSD Can Influence the Risk of Eating Disorder Development

The Co-Occurrence with Eating Disorders

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) often co-occurs with eating disorders. New data confirm the link between PTSD symptoms and eating disordered behaviors. According to Brewerton, PTSD is associated with higher rates of substance use disorders, other comorbid psychiatric disorders and a variety of destructive and impulsive behaviors, including suicide.

One of the primary purposes of the eating disorder behavior and thoughts are to cope with uncomfortable feelings or painful past thoughts about traumas (flashbacks). Patients with bulimia nervosa or binge eating disorder are more commonly associated with past trauma and PTSD.

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