Eating Disorders, Military Culture & Suicide Prevention | Leah Stiles

Leah Stiles, retired Navy Senior Chief and founder of Sea Waves, joins the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into one of the most overlooked and misunderstood challenges facing service members and veterans—eating disorders and their impact on mental health, readiness, and suicide prevention.

In this episode, we explore:• Why eating disorders are often hidden in military culture• The connection between trauma, transition, and disordered eating• Leadership blind spots and policy gaps impacting care• How education, advocacy, and early intervention can save lives

Whether you're navigating military transition, serving in a leadership role, or supporting someone in uniform, this conversation provides clear, actionable insight and resources you can use today.

Leah Stiles is a retired U.S. Navy Senior Chief and the founder of Sea Waves, the nation’s first nonprofit exclusively dedicated to addressing eating disorders within the military and veteran community. She is a national advocate, educator, and author focused on prevention, access to care, and cultural change.

The VET S.O.S. Network connects veterans, service members, and military spouses with real resources and real people who want to see you thrive.

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