Diagnostic Code 9521 · 38 CFR §4.130
Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors, along with excessive concern about body weight or shape. The VA rates this condition under the General Rating Formula for Mental Disorders, meaning the rating is determined by the degree of occupational and social impairment rather than specific physical symptoms alone.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | Condition is diagnosed but symptoms do not interfere with occupational or social functioning and continuous medication is not required. |
| 10% | Mild or transient symptoms that reduce work efficiency only during periods of significant stress, or symptoms managed by continuous medication. |
| 30% | Occasional decrease in work efficiency with intermittent inability to perform occupational tasks, though generally functioning satisfactorily. May include anxiety, depressed mood, and social withdrawal. |
| 50% | Reduced reliability and productivity due to symptoms such as disturbances of motivation and mood, difficulty maintaining effective work and social relationships, and impaired judgment. |
| 70% | Deficiencies in most areas including work, family relations, judgment, thinking, or mood. May include near-continuous anxiety or depression affecting independent functioning, inability to maintain effective relationships, and neglect of physical health. |
| 100% | Total occupational and social impairment with inability to perform activities of daily living, persistent danger to self, grossly impaired judgment, and complete inability to function in a work or social environment. |
A current diagnosis from a psychiatrist or psychologist is required. Treatment records documenting ongoing mental health care, therapy, and any hospitalizations establish both diagnosis and severity. Records showing onset during service or aggravation by service are needed for direct connection. If claiming secondary to PTSD, depression, or MST, include a nexus opinion. Medical records documenting any secondary physical health effects (dental damage, gastrointestinal issues) can support a separate secondary claim for those conditions. Lay statements describing functional impact are valuable.
The VA rates bulimia nervosa under the General Rating Formula for Mental Disorders (DC 9521), the same framework used for PTSD and depression. Your rating is based on overall occupational and social impairment — how the condition affects your work, relationships, and daily functioning — not on the frequency of specific behaviors.
Yes. Physical health consequences such as dental erosion, gastrointestinal conditions, or other medical problems caused by the eating disorder can be claimed as secondary conditions with their own diagnostic codes and ratings. You would need medical documentation linking the physical condition to the service-connected eating disorder.