Why do rates of eating disorders tend to be higher among military dependents compared to the civilian population?
According to the study “Parental Deployment and Distress, and Adolescent Disordered Eating in Prevention-Seeking Military Dependents,” compared to their civilian peers, military dependents face additional stressors that may contribute to the development of an eating disorder.
Stressors include deployments, their parents’ long work hours, and frequent moving. They see their parents maintaining their appearance in uniform standards, which is crucial for career advancement. Military personnel may engage in disordered eating behaviors to meet the Physical Readiness Test (PRT) standards, conducted once or twice a year, depending on the branch.
Military children are acutely aware of their surroundings, which can lead to anxiety and internalization of certain attitudes toward eating and body image.
That was me.
But I’m one of the lucky ones. I’m better now, happy, and living life the way I had always hoped. My parents never stopped fighting for me, even on the days I gave up on myself.
I will always speak about my experiences because I never want anyone to feel alone. I write to take back the power my eating disorder stole from me for so many years. It stole my teenage years and nearly took my life, but I no longer let it rule me.
If you are struggling with an eating disorder, know you are not alone, and there are people who care, including me. Please reach out for help. I know it’s daunting when you don’t know where to turn, but the wonderful people at Project HEAL are always here for support. If you’re military, reach out to SEA WAVES.
And remember, recovery is worth the fight.
