Unmasking the Struggle: Men Are Not Immune from Eating Disorders
When we think about eating disorders, the image that often comes to mind is of young women. But what about men? Despite making up 25% of individuals with eating disorders, men often face stigma, misunderstanding, and silence around their struggles. Today, we’re sharing stories and insights to shed light on the unique challenges men face with eating disorders—and how we can change the narrative.
Beyond the Stereotypes
Eating disorders in men are vastly underreported and often misdiagnosed. Societal expectations of masculinity discourage men from expressing vulnerability or admitting to struggles with body image. As a result, many men suffer in silence, unaware that eating disorders are not limited by gender.
Research reveals that millions of men in the U.S. alone battle eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, or other specified feeding or eating disorders (OSFED). However, misconceptions and a lack of resources tailored to men’s experiences make recovery even more challenging.
Paul’s Story
Take Paul, a man in his mid-20s who has battled bulimia since his early twenties. Paul attended a support group I ran several years ago for men who struggled with their eating. Growing up, Paul struggled with weight and body insecurities, which were compounded during adolescence by experiences in physical education classes where he dreaded being singled out in games like “shirts and skins.”
In his early twenties, Paul’s insecurities deepened. He turned to amphetamines—prescribed during his childhood for ADHD—to suppress his appetite and maintain strict control over his weight. What started as anxiety about his body morphed into compulsive binge-purge behaviors that he initially dismissed as “discipline.”
Paul’s struggle escalated to a daily cycle of bingeing and purging, even as he pursued athletic goals like marathon training. Despite the serious health consequences—tooth decay, electrolyte imbalances, and an increased risk of heart failure—he found it incredibly difficult to break free from the cycle.
Understanding Eating Disorders in Men
Dr. Roberto Olivardia, a clinical instructor at Harvard and an expert on eating disorders in men, explains that eating disorders often involve much more than concerns about weight or appearance.
“It’s much beyond the body,” he says. “I’ve never worked with anyone with an eating disorder where it’s really just been about that. It often goes deeper than that.”
For men like Paul, eating disorders are often rooted in feelings of shame and inadequacy. Societal stigma adds another layer of complexity: many men feel they’re dealing with a “female” issue and struggle to find relatable resources or community support.
Jake’s Journey
Jake’s story offers another perspective. Jake was a student of mine several years ago in an undergraduate psychology course I taught. As a teenager, Jake developed severe anorexia, which led to life-threatening health risks and hospitalization. His desperation to maintain control over his weight drove him to extreme behaviors, such as water-loading—drinking excessive amounts of water to appear heavier on the scale.
Jake’s battle highlights the emotional toll of eating disorders. He admitted to feeling so hopeless that he didn’t care if he lived or died. At the core of his struggle was the belief that his worth was tied to achieving an idealized body image.
Barriers to Treatment
Both Paul and Jake’s experiences underscore the barriers men face in seeking treatment:
Stigma: Eating disorders are still perceived as a “female problem,” leaving many men feeling isolated.
Lack of Resources: Many treatment programs are designed with women in mind, making it hard for men to find relatable support.
Emotional Hurdles: Shame and the fear of judgment often prevent men from reaching out for help.
A Path Forward
Dr. Olivardia emphasizes the importance of addressing the underlying emotions behind eating disorders, such as anxiety and shame. For men, treatment should also consider how societal norms about masculinity influence their behaviors and sense of self-worth.
“With virtually every male that I’ve treated, the issue of what it means to be a man always comes up,” says Dr. Olivardia. “Because we see eating disorders as a traditionally female issue.”
Breaking the Silence
Raising awareness about men and eating disorders starts with challenging stereotypes and sharing stories. Here’s how we can make a difference:
Normalize Conversations: Encourage open discussions about body image and mental health among men.
Educate Providers: Ensure healthcare professionals are trained to recognize and address eating disorders in men.
Offer Support: Create inclusive spaces where men feel seen and supported.
Hope and Recovery
Both Paul and Jake emphasize the importance of hope. Recovery may not happen overnight, but small, consistent steps can lead to meaningful change. As Paul says:
“As long as you’re moving forward, you’ll be successful. It doesn’t mean you’ll get there tomorrow, but progress is progress.”
If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, resources like the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) can help. Let’s continue to challenge the stigma and make space for men’s voices in this conversation. Together, we can ensure that no one feels alone in their journey toward healing.