Eating disorders are often associated with women, but men can also struggle with these disorders.

Here are some stats:

• 25% of those diagnosed with eating disorders are males [1].

• 33% of males have used unhealthy behaviors an attempts to alter their weight [1].

• Eating disorders will impact 10 million males at some point in their lives [2].

• From 1999 to 2009, hospitalization of males for eating disorders increased by 53% [2].

• 15% of gay or bisexual men report struggling with an eating disorder [2].

• 5% if heterosexual men report struggling with an eating disorder [2].

• Men with eating disorders may have a higher mortality risk than women [2].
  

  There are many reasons why men develop eating disorders. Like women, they may feel pressure to conform to cultural ideals of beauty and thinness. They may also use food or exercise as a way to cope with stress or difficult emotions. In addition, men who participate in sports or bodybuilding may feel pressure to maintain a certain weight or body composition.
  
  Despite the fact that men can suffer from the same eating disorders as women, they may exhibit different symptoms. For example, men with anorexia nervosa may become obsessed with building muscle rather than losing weight. Men with bulimia nervosa may be more likely to engage in excessive exercise or fasting, rather than purging.
  
  It is important for men to understand that eating disorders are not a sign of weakness or failure. It takes strength and courage to reach out for help. Treatment for eating disorders typically involves a combination of therapy, nutrition counseling, and medication as needed.
  
  At Lost Stories Counseling Services, we provide a safe and confidential space for men to explore and heal from their eating disorders. We believe that recovery from an eating disorder is possible and we are committed to supporting our clients throughout their journey.

  Sources

• Anorexia in men and boys: treatment and statistics. American Addiction Centers. Retrieved from https://americanaddictioncenters.org/male-eating-disorders/anorexia.

• Men and eating disorders. National Eating Disorders Association. Retrieved from https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/men-eating-disorders.