How Eating Disorders Affect Men
How Eating Disorders Affect Men and Boys
Did you know that 1 in 3 people affected by an eating disorder is a man? Let’s take a deeper look into how EDs affect men despite the bias that it’s a women’s issue.
Common Eating Disorders that Affect Men
Some of the eating disorders that most commonly affect men and boys include:
- Anorexia nervosa, an eating disorder characterized by weight loss by restricting caloric intake and the types of food being consumed
- Bulimia nervosa, an eating disorder characterized by a cycle of binge-eating and compensatory behaviors to make up for the effects of binge-eating
- Binge Eating Disorder, an eating disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of eating large amounts of food
Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders
Men who are diagnosed with an eating disorder are often suffering from one of the following co-occurring mental health issues:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Substance abuse
- Body dysmorphia
Statistics for Diagnosis
- Males represent about 25% of those diagnosed with anorexia nervosa
- 10% of male college athletes are at risk for developing anorexia nervosa
- 20% of gay males suffer from anorexia nervosa
- 38% of male college athletes are at risk for developing bulimia nervosa
- 14% of gay males suffer from bulimia nervosa
- About 2% of males will develop binge eating disorder
Mortality Rates
Although many men and boys suffering from eating disorders experience the same symptoms and behaviors as their female counterparts, they often go without seeking help due to the stigma surrounding masculinity. Due to lack of diagnosis and treatment, the mortality rate for men suffering from ED is higher than that of women.
Eating Disorder Treatment in North Carolina
At Tapestry, our treatment programs are designed to provide our clients with individualized care while acknowledging their unique life experiences. Our staff members are also dedicated to understanding and treating our clients as whole people.
Whether you have questions about eating disorders or how to support a loved one struggling with an eating disorder, we are here for you. Contact us today by filling out a confidential form or give us a call at (828) 490-4032.
