Eating disorders are a significant public health concern that affects individuals across various demographics, including veterans. It’s essential to understand the unique factors contributing to veteran eating disorders to ensure appropriate treatment and support. You may be wondering why veterans experience eating disorders more than the average person. To learn more about veterans and eating disorders, contact Virtue Recovery Las Vegas – Eating Disorders’ veterans eating disorder treatment at 866.984.3819. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing veterans with the highest quality care and support.
Why Veterans Experience Eating Disorders More Than the Average Person
While anyone can develop an eating disorder, research suggests that veterans might be more susceptible due to specific factors associated with military service. One of the main reasons is the high-stress environment in the military, which can trigger unhealthy coping mechanisms, including disordered eating. The pressure to maintain a certain physique or weight for performance or appearance standards can also contribute to these disorders.
Other factors include:
- Combat-related trauma
- Stress from readjusting to civilian life
- Changes in lifestyle after being discharged from service
- Difficulty forming close relationships due to their military experience
Additionally, veterans may have access to dietary supplements and performance-enhancing drugs that can be harmful if abused. Veterans who are struggling with eating disorders require specialized treatment from clinicians experienced in working with this population. Virtue Recovery Las Vegas – Eating Disorders is committed to providing evidence-based treatments with our eating disorder treatment for veterans.
Common Veteran Eating Disorders
The most common eating disorders among veterans include:
- Anorexia nervosa (AN)– characterized by severe restriction of calories and intense fear of gaining weight
- Bulimia nervosa (BN) – a type of eating disorder that involves “bingeing” on food followed by compensatory behavior such as purging or exercising excessively
- Binge-eating disorder (BED) – an uncontrollable urge to eat large amounts of food in a short period
- Other specified feeding or eating disorder (OSFED) – an umbrella term for a variety of disorders that don’t meet the criteria of other eating disorders
While these eating disorders exist amongst the general population, veterans are at a higher risk due to the unique stressors of military service. If you or someone you know is a veteran struggling with an eating disorder, get in touch with us today for treatment and support. We understand the needs of veterans and are dedicated to providing quality care and support for those affected by these disorders.
Eating Disorder Treatment for Veterans
Effective treatment for eating disorders typically involves a combination of medical, nutritional, and psychological therapies. The goal is to address the physical consequences of the disorder, normalize eating patterns, and help individuals cope with psychological stressors contributing to the disorder.
In the case of veterans, treatment may also need to address any co-occurring mental health conditions, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or depression. Therapies may include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) for trauma
Moreover, veterans with an anorexia or bulimia diagnosis connected to their service may be eligible for disability benefits, which can help cover treatment costs.
Veterans face unique risk factors for developing eating disorders. Understanding these factors is critical to providing effective treatment and support. With adequate care and resources, recovery from an eating disorder is entirely possible, and veterans can regain their health and quality of life.
Contact Virtue Recovery Las Vegas – Eating Disorders Now
At Virtue Recovery Las Vegas – Eating Disorders, we understand the unique challenges veterans face when it comes to eating disorders. Our team of experts provides high-quality treatment and support to help those affected by these conditions.
If you or someone you know is a veteran struggling with an eating disorder, contact us today for professional help. Call us at 866.984.3819 or complete our online form. A brighter, healthier future is possible.
