Eating Disorders are often portrayed as illnesses that only affect females BUT a quarter of people who suffer from disorders such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa are male and almost equal the amount of females who suffer from binge eating disorders.
Following the news that Penn State Football Kicker Joey Julius suffers from binge-eating, the stigma surrounding males with eating disorders is becoming more evident in society.
Body Satisfaction
Body dissatisfaction in males is rapidly increasing, being commonly manifested as the pursuit of a muscular, lean physique rather than a lower body weight.
Male athletes have an increased vulnerability to eating disorders, particularly those in sports with a greater emphasis on weight classes and aesthetic ideals i.e. weight lifters etc…
For some males the heightened concerns about muscularity may become part of an eating disorder, characterised by distorted perceptions about muscle bulk and or distorted eating and exercise patterns.
Warning Signs
It is important to be aware about the warning signs and acting early when symptoms arise to decrease the severity and duration of the illness.
Seeking help at the first warning signs is very important, however the nature of an eating disorder means that the sufferer will try and ensure any warning signs are concealed.
There are physical, psychological and behavioural warning signs that can signal the onset or the presence of an eating disorder, the warning signs that are more likely to occur in males are:
- Preoccupation with body building, weight lifting or muscle toning
- Weight lifting when injured
- Lowered testosterone
- Anxiety/stress over missing workouts
- Muscular weakness
- Decreased interest in sex, of fears around sex
- Possible conflict over gender identity or sexual orientation
- Using anabolic steroids
Socio-cultural influences mean that over-exercising and the extreme pursuit of muscle growth are frequently seen as healthy behaviours for males and can be even be actively encouraged.
Find out more warning signs
Getting Help
If you suspect that you or someone you know, male or female, has an eating disorder it important to seek help immediately.
The Butterfly Foundation – 1800 334 4673 or support@thebutterflyfoundation.org.au
More information – Eating Disorders in Males Fact Sheet
Information courtesy of National Eating Disorder Collaboration
NOT SO 'MENTAL' 