New Research Highlights PTSD as a Critical Mental Health Comorbidity for Veterans with Diabetes

A recent study emphasizes the significant impact of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) on veterans living with diabetes. Nearly one in four adults over 65 in the United States has diabetes, and older veterans are particularly affected due to exposures during military service, such as Agent Orange and combat-related trauma. Managing diabetes requires daily self-care and is often complicated by other chronic conditions, leading to increased disability and functional decline.

The study, published in "Health Psychology," analyzed data from large cohorts of Vietnam War-era veterans, including both men and women. Researchers discovered that veterans suffering from both PTSD and diabetes face a higher risk of disability and poor physical functioning compared to those with only one of these conditions or neither. Lead researcher Dr. Kelsey N. Serier highlighted the importance of screening for PTSD in medical settings where diabetes is diagnosed and managed, underscoring the intricate relationship between mental and physical health.

The findings reveal that co-occurring PTSD and diabetes create additional challenges, emphasizing the need for integrated treatment approaches. The research utilized extensive survey and interview data collected over decades, providing a comprehensive view of the long-term health outcomes for veterans. Experts suggest that addressing both conditions simultaneously could improve long-term health and reduce disability among veterans.

Overall, this study highlights the necessity of considering mental health factors, such as PTSD, when managing chronic physical conditions like diabetes in veterans. It calls for healthcare systems to develop strategies to better support veterans facing these complex health issues, ultimately improving their functioning and quality of life.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-ptsd-important-mental-health-comorbidity.html