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Men and Anorexia
Contributor: Crystal Karges, MS, RDN, IBCLC Special Projects Coordinator at Eating Disorder Hope
Anorexia nervosa is the mental illness with the highest mortality rate. The consequences that result from anorexia are devastating and can impact both the sufferer and the loved ones who are part of their lives. While anorexia impacts both males and females, much stigma still clouds the concept of eating disorders and genders.
With stereotypes frequently emitted from media and culture, it is often mistakenly thought that men are somehow immune from developing anorexia.
Men of Any Age Can Develop and Eating Disorder
One cannot argue with facts, and statistics have shown that men of any age can develop an eating disorder. It is projected that about 10-15% of individuals with anorexia are men, though this number is likely an underestimation.
Many men with anorexia may be fearful of admitting their struggle or may not seek treatment unless extremely ill. Anorexia is often misrepresented as a “woman’s disease”, and therefore men who have anorexia may wonder if something is inherently wrong with them.
The Basis of Anorexia
Understanding the basis of anorexia can help dispel many of the common misconceptions about this deadly disease. Research has demonstrated the strong biological components at the core of anorexia, with genetics and neurobiology as major contributing factors that would make a man susceptible to developing this mental illness.
These are factors that a man cannot choose or control. Knowing this information can help relieve some of the shame that often surrounds a diagnosis of anorexia.
The Resources Available for Recovery from an Eating Disorder
If you or a man in your life has been suffering with anorexia, know that there are resources available to you that can help you recover from this deadly disease. Overcoming the shame, guilt or embarrassment that may come as a man who struggles with anorexia happens through the healing process of recovery.
You do not need to go through this journey alone. Having a strong support system and the professional assistance with a specialized treatment team can provide you with a strong foundation for recovery. Overcoming obstacles encountered through the journey will happen step by step, through persistence and determination.
Community Discussion – Share your thoughts here!
Are you a man who has struggled with anorexia? What challenges and obstacles have you faced through your journey and/or in recovery? What advice would you offer to other men who are also struggling with anorexia?
Last Updated & Reviewed By: Jacquelyn Ekern, MS, LPC on June 2nd, 2015
Published on EatingDisorderHope.com
The EatingDisorderHope.com editorial team comprises experienced writers, editors, and medical reviewers specializing in eating disorders, treatment, and mental and behavioral health.
