Men & Eating Disorders

Males have eating disorders just as women do. However, a smaller percentage of males have eating disorders than females. Several surveys indicate that 10 percent of people with eating disorders are male. Research from Harvard University Medical School suggests that up to 25 percent of adults with eating disorders are male. Regardless of the lower statistic, males need to be in treatment! They have similar eating and body image issues as women, but have it more difficult because of the "female stigma" with eating disorders. Males may be more cautious about getting help for their problem, and may fear feeling out of place because they are male.

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Outside of the issue of gender, males can be treated nearly the same way as females. As with anyone who is being treated for an eating disorder, treatment must be individualized. This website is by no means intended to exclude men, and in fact all of the information that is helpful to parents and friends for women is helpful to men. Males have benefited from the campus support group and have felt welcomed and comfortable. They struggle with many of the same issues concerning, feelings, behaviors, and thoughts, just as women. It is common that males with eating disorders have been overweight as children. Males may have been dieting previous to having an eating disorder and may have been in an appearance focused family, athletic sport, or profession. If you are male and are worried about seeking treatment, understand that professionals treat both males and females. The sooner a person can get to treatment there is more of a possibility of regaining a stable and happy life!