Eating disorders do not discriminate and men are certainly no exception. The misconception that eating disorders only affect females is problematic for men who are in need of treatment. Eating disorders in men often go unrecognized and undiagnosed.

By: Anna Capetola

Approximately one death occurs every hour stemming directly from an eating disorder. Compared to other illnesses listed in the DSM-5 (The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition), eating disorders have the second-highest mortality rate. Eating disorders are serious yet treatable illnesses that impact the mind and body. Eating disorders affect individuals of all ages, genders, sexual orientations, ethnicities, races, and socioeconomic groups. At least 30 million Americans will be diagnosed with an eating disorder in their lifetime. More specifically, 10 million men will develop an eating disorder at some point in time. The number of males experiencing disordered eating patterns might actually be significantly higher, however, as information on this matter is limited due to the historic underrepresentation of males in eating disorder research. For decades, the DSM included female-specific criteria, such as amenorrhea, which emphasized the seclusion of males within the eating disorder population. This underrepresentation highlights the stigma associated with eating disorders among males.

Impacts of Stigma

It is statically accurate to state that females are predominately impacted by eating disorders, however, it is important to recognize and support the 25% of men who are also impacted by eating disorders. The cultural stigma and societal misconception that only females are affected by eating disorders has proven to induce feelings of shame and isolation among men. Many men have reported being fearful of how others will perceive them if they acknowledge that they might be engaging in disordered eating behaviors. Evidently, this fear, shame, and isolation resulting from this stereotype forms a barrier for males to recognize that an eating disorder might be present. Consequently, males often delay seeking eating disorder treatment. This is problematic for many reasons, including the possibility that symptoms can exacerbate if the reception of treatment is prolonged.

Eating Disorders in Men and Boys

The desire to change one’s weight is present in the same amount of men as women. Males experience the same pressure from media outlets to appear a certain way. Studies have shown that about 25% of men in America are said to be on a diet on any given day. Additionally, nearly 40% of individuals diagnosed with binge eating disorder are men. Furthermore, men with eating disorders are twice as likely to have a co-morbid substance use disorder. It is vital to note that some substances have the ability to suppress appetite.

Boys as young as eight years old have been diagnosed with Anorexia Nervosa. Several studies have also indicated that puberty can be an exceptionally vulnerable time. Male teenagers may begin to develop poor body image and feel pressured to appear physically strong. Similarly, the pressure to perform well athletically acts as a catalyst for eating disorders in males. Approximately 30% of male teenagers engage in unhealthy behaviors to control their weight. This includes skipping meals, fasting, using laxatives, smoking cigarettes, and vomiting.

Eating disorders do not discriminate and these gender biases need to be challenged. It is essential for men to be included in eating disorder conversations and research. This inclusion can theoretically open the treatment gates and provide additional support for men experiencing disordered eating behaviors.

At BALANCE, we are dedicated to the treatment of men with eating disorders including anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder as well as disordered eating through our programs and services.

Additionally, our center has responded to their needs with the creation of a group specifically for men struggling with emotional & binge eating behaviors and body image concerns. Our Men’s Group provides a space to examine one’s relationships with body, food, and self. The group also focuses on self-esteem, relationship issues & sexuality, nutrition, healthy exercising, communication, and coping skills. Schedule a free consultation call with our admissions team below for more information on our Men’s Group.

This post was written by BALANCE Social Work Intern, Anna Capetola.

Anna is a second-year graduate student at New York University pursuing her Master’s in Social Work. She completed her undergraduate education at Quinnipiac University, majoring in psychology and minoring in sociology. She previously worked for Vibrant Emotional Health, formerly known as The Mental Health Association of NYC, where she conducted assessments, provided short-term counseling, and offered crisis intervention services to individuals who were struggling with an array of mental health and substance use concerns. Anna also has experience working with the Traumatic Brain Injury population, as well as individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and Autism Spectrum Disorder. She is devoted to learning about the mind-body connection, health, and overall wellness. She is deeply passionate about eating disorder awareness and recovery. Anna believes everyone has the right to feel supported, accepted, understood, valued, and cared for.

Resources

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Eating Disorders in Men are Becoming More Prevalent and Deadly. (2020). Retrieved from https://www.eatingdisorderhope.com/treatment- for-eating-disorders/special-issues/men

Eating Disorders in Men & Boys. (2018). Retrieved from https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/learn/generalinformation/research-on-males

Eating Disorder Statistics • National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders. (2019). Retrieved from https://anad.org/education-and-awareness/about-eating-disorders/eating-disorders-statistics

Murray S. B., Nagata J. M., Griffiths S., Calzo J. P., Brown T. A., Mitchison D., . . . Mond J. M. (2017). The enigma of male eating disorders: A critical review and synthesis. Clinical Psychology Review, 57, 1–11. doi:10.1016/j.cpr.2017.08.001