"We need to understand how telling a guy to “Toughen up” or “Get over it, you’re a man” can be harmful to the emotional and physical well being of our young boys and men."
In the past year, we have seen a dramatic increase in the amount of males entering treatment. Many believe this is abnormal. Men don’t get eating disorders, this is a female problem. Yet, 25-40% of those who struggle with Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating or some other type of eating disorder is male!
As I was working with a young 15 year old struggling with Anorexia with a fear of getting sick from “non-healthy foods,” I decided to see what type of research is out there to help. I struggled to find tangible information.
It became apparent – most eating disorder research and clinical interventions are based on women.
More obvious - males are the one of the most underrepresented populations in eating disorder treatment.
I scoured the research articles, searched for direct studies. How could 25-40% of the population have been overlooked? Does anyone have a true understanding in knowing how to implement a way to strengthen their needs?
The list was bare.
Males do respond differently to their mental health needs and only one place on the internet provided a comprehensive [yet small] list of studies – The National Association for Males with Eating Disorders (NAMED).
Something…
From initial contact to assessment through intervention and outpatient treatment, each question asked of males is based on positive data found in women-centered studies.
How does a man respond to questions around trauma?
Bullying?
Family?
Is it the same?
I don’t know about you, but I have rarely seen an adolescent male respond similarly to the surrounding world as his female counterparts.
It has become obvious, there is a strong need to begin advocating and finding more direct support. A purpose was found and I began contacting NAMED for further advice and perspective.
The relationship grew and I have recently been notified that I was nominated and voted to be on the Board of Directors. I am honored by the forethought and opportunity.
Many professionals in the health care field are not specialists in eating disorders. That isn’t their fault. I hope this opportunity will grant me the opportunity to advocate on the local and national levels to strengthen prevention efforts.
We need to understand how telling a guy to “Toughen up” or “Get over it, you’re a man” can be harmful to the emotional and physical well being of our young boys and men.
-Brian Pollack, LCSW