Understanding eating disorders
For many people, the concept of an eating disorder can be a difficult one to comprehend. So, it’s no surprise there are plenty of misconceptions and a stigma attached to suffering from an eating disorder. Understanding how these types of mental illness work is the first step to understanding what someone is going through. Having a good grasp of what eating disorders are can be the first step to getting yourself or a loved one to a better, safer situation.
Why men?
Because eating disorders can affect anyone, regardless of gender – but that’s not the perception we have as a society today. We’ve seen first-hand how the stigma and lack of representation for those affected by eating disorders for men can have fatal consequences. That’s why The Laurence Trust is committed to providing a voice for men with eating disorders, shining a light on just how difficult this condition can be, regardless of whether you’re male or female.
Types of eating disorder
Most of us have heard of anorexia or bulimia, whether through the news and the internet or personal experience. But eating disorders are often far more complex than one single label. Binge eating disorder, muscle dysmorphia, OSFED and UFED all fall under the ‘eating disorders’ umbrella, and all of them can affect men as much as they can women.
Symptoms & causes
Eating disorders cover various specific conditions, some of which may have different symptoms from others. For example, someone diagnosed with muscle dysphoria would exercise obsessively and strictly control their diet, while a person with binge eating disorder would have a lack of control over eating. The DSM-5 lists specific criteria for the symptoms of eating disorders, and we cover more here about particular signs to watch out for.
Men & eating disorders
There is often very little difference between male and female eating disorders in terms of psychology and symptoms. But the difference comes from the stigma attached to men and eating disorders. With the belief that men should keep things together and cope, it’s far less likely that the signs of a severe eating disorder will be spotted early on – and, with fewer resources available, there are fewer ways for men to seek help, too.
Spot the signs
If you’re concerned about a gradual or sudden change in someone’s behaviour, or you’re worried that a friend or loved one may have an eating disorder, spotting the signs early can make all the difference. Similarly, if you’re struggling in your relationship with food or your body, knowing the red flags for eating disorders can prevent a serious issue from becoming worse.