Eating Disorders in Men

When you picture an eating disorder, what images come to mind? Did any of those images include men? While the common conception of eating disorders emphasizes women, research shows that about one in three people with an eating disorder are men, and eating disorders will affect 10 million men in the United States alone. It’s important to begin acknowledging these truths as a culture, but it’s also important in our own lives. By having some information on men and eating disorders you are more equipped to help the men in your life, or perhaps even help yourself.

Here are a few considerations to keep in mind about men and eating disorders.

Trauma is a risk factor. Research demonstrates that childhood trauma is a risk factor in developing an eating disorder later in life. A common response to sexual abuse or bullying for men with eating disorders is to focus on gaining muscle and increasing size. In some cases this effort to increase their size and strength is used as an attempt to avoid further victimization.

A fixation on muscle building can coincide with an eating disorder. Body Dysmorphic Disorder is characterized by a fixation on certain physical features which the person misperceives as being irregular or extremely unattractive. Muscle dysmorphia is a type of BDD, and many men who struggle with it also have eating disorders. Some signs that you or a loved one may be dealing with this issue are:

●      Excessive over-exertion and time spent weightlifting to increase muscle size

●      Obsession over regularity of workouts/ anxiety if workouts are missed

●      Training while injured

●      Disordered eating and/or fasting to lose weight

●      Excessive use of protein powders and supplements

●      Abuse of steroids

●      Compulsive comparison and checking of one’s body against others

●      Mood swings

Treatment for men with eating disorders is equally effective. Research demonstrates that rates of recovery with treatment are just as promising for men as they are for women. Despite the lack of cultural awareness around men’s eating issues, men have still entered treatment and found success. As men’s mental health issues gain more acknowledgment, it is likely that treatment for men with ED will become more normalized. This is helpful for everyone, as it emboldens any man with an issue to consider the possibility of treatment.

Men struggling with eating disorders don’t have to fight alone. There is professional help available that can restore their freedom and quality of life. If you or a loved one is suffering from disordered eating, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. An admissions professional or counselor can help you determine an appropriate level of care for you or your loved one.

Contributed by Carina Pearson, MA , IOP Counselor at Focus Treatment Centers, Chattanooga, TN

 

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Lauren Sterritt