Eating disorders are often perceived as a female concern and treatment has largely focused on helping girls and women recover. However, boys and men can and do struggle with eating disorders, and their symptoms may not be as readily identifiable. This is a huge problem, as eating disorders can worsen progressively over time and may be life-threatening.
If you are concerned about yourself or a loved one, it's important to learn the warning signs, risk factors, and eating disorder treatment options. Let's get into what you need to know.
Eating Disorder in Men Statistics
Disordered eating concerns in men tend to be both overlooked and dismissed. This is because their symptoms may differ from those of the more "conventional" eating disorder symptoms present in women. In addition, many men downplay their symptoms or suffer in silence.
The exact statistics of male eating disorders are unknown. However, recent studies show that the lifetime prevalence of a man developing an eating disorder is approximately 2.2%. The most common diagnosis is binge eating disorder followed by other specified or feeding disorder (OSFED). About 0.3% of men meet the criteria for anorexia nervosa.
it's estimated that about a quarter of those diagnosed with eating disorders are male and that nearly 1/3 of men have used 'unhealthy coping mechanisms' to alter their weight in some way. Eating disorder hospitalizations are also on the rise among men.
What Causes Male Eating Disorders?
There is no single cause for eating disorders in men. Eating disorders, like all mental health disorders, are complex and multifaceted. Instead of figuring out why someone has an eating disorder, it's often more beneficial to consider the risk factors associated with disordered eating behaviors. These risk factors include:
Being part of the LGBTQ+ community: Those who identify as gay or bisexual, trans, gender diverse, or gender non-binary appear to be at a greater risk of developing eating disorder symptoms.
Athletes: Male athletes are more likely than non-athletes to engage in eating disorder behaviors and/or experience body image concerns. This may have to do with patterns of excessive exercise, rigid dieting tactics, and the need to engage in weight loss or weight gain (depending on the sport).
Family history of eating disorders: Eating disorder diagnoses often run in families, and it may speak to distorted body image and food concerns being passed on as early as young childhood.
Co-occurring mental disorders: Eating disorders are co-morbid with many other mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, body dysmorphic disorder, personality disorders, and substance abuse.
Differences Between Male and Female Eating Disorders
Eating disorders don't have a specific look, and people of any age, weight, or socioeconomic class can develop a disturbed relationship with food and body image. That said, it's important to be aware of the common nuances associated with men and disordered eating.
Focus on macronutrients: Instead of drastically reducing caloric intake, some men develop a compulsive pattern of 'counting macros' and ensuring that each food is optimal. To achieve this, they may cut entire food groups or obsess about their eating in a way that interferes with daily living.
Muscle dysmorphia: Muscle dysmorphia is not a condition within the DSM, but men may experience intense concern about their body shape, body weight, and overall muscle mass. No matter how "large" they look or how much muscle they have, they may still feel small. This distorted perception can lead to steroid abuse, disordered eating habits, and compulsive exercise.
Binge eating: Binge eating disorder is one of the most common eating disorders among men and women. Sometimes people engage in compensatory behaviors to mitigate bingeing (known as bulimia nervosa). However, men may be less likely to use self-induced vomiting. Instead, they might oscillate through patterns of bingeing and restricting or simply bingeing.
Treatment for Eating Disorders
Men with eating disorders can benefit from seeking professional support during their recovery process. It's important to note that treatment efficacy varies. Methods that work well for one person may not have the same beneficial effects for someone else.
Residential treatment: Residential treatment may be recommended for men who need structured, supervised support to achieve initial stabilization. Residential treatment incorporates comprehensive care- you'll have access to a therapist, dietitian, case manager, and group facilitators.
Intensive outpatient treatment (IOP): IOP or outpatient treatment may be recommended for men who struggle with an eating disorder but still intend to work, attend school, or live at home. In this treatment, men focus on reducing body dissatisfaction and increasing a healthier relationship with food.
Support groups: Support groups can be beneficial for men experiencing distorted body image or food issues. Peer support offers a valuable sense of camaraderie.
Treatment for Men's Mental Health Concerns
At Resurface Group, we help men recover from their mental health concerns and live more authentically and meaningfully. We offer a variety of customized services dedicated to helping you at every stage of wellness. Whether you're struggling with an eating disorder, substance use disorder, or an acute mental illness, we are here to offer you support and guidance.
Contact us today to learn more about our unique programs.
Comments