Men and Eating Disorders – It’s Not Just a Women’s Issue
Eating disorders are a serious mental health issue that affect millions of Americans each year. However, we often assume that these disorders only affect women. The truth is, men suffer from eating disorders too, and they face a unique set of challenges when it comes to seeking help. At Purple Sky Counseling in Murray, UT, we understand the complexities of eating disorders and provide specialized care for men.
What Are Eating Disorders?
Eating disorders are characterized by disordered eating patterns that can involve overeating or under-eating, and can cause physical, mental, and emotional distress. The most common eating disorders include Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, Binge Eating Disorder, Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), and Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorder (OSFED). These disorders are not just about food; they’re also about underlying psychological issues such as anxiety, depression, and body image issues.
Men and Eating Disorders
While eating disorders have long been seen as a “women’s issue,” we now know that men are affected too. In fact, an estimated 10 million men in the US suffer from eating disorders. Unfortunately, men are often overlooked when it comes to eating disorder awareness and treatment. This is partly because men are less likely to seek help for mental health issues, and partly because the signs of eating disorders in men can be different than those in women.
The Signs of Eating Disorders in Men
The signs of eating disorders in men are often less obvious than those in women. While women may display signs of extreme thinness, men are more likely to be of normal or above average weight. Other signs to look for in men include:
• Obsessive behavior related to food or weight
• Excessive exercise or spending excessive time at the gym
• Excessive dietary restrictions
• Bingeing or purging
• Preoccupation with body image or weight
• Use of supplements or steroids
• Avoiding social situations involving food
The Challenges Men Face
Men face unique challenges when it comes to seeking help for eating disorders. They are less likely to receive a diagnosis, and when they do, they are often told it’s “just a phase” or that they “just need to eat more.” This can lead to feelings of shame and embarrassment, and can make it even harder for men to seek the help they need.
Getting Help at Purple Sky Counseling
At Purple Sky Counseling in Murray, UT, we provide specialized care for men suffering from eating disorders. We understand the unique challenges men face and provide a safe, non-judgmental environment for men to explore their feelings and behaviors. Our team is committed to helping men understand their eating disorder and develop healthy eating habits. We also provide family counseling and support to help families understand and support their loved ones with eating disorders.