Rising Eating Disorders Among Young Men: Breaking the Stigma

Date: Friday 21 Mar 2025

As young men face a steep rise in eating disorder diagnoses, stigma around these conditions persists. A 2023 study found that hospitalization rates for young men with eating disorders increased by 416% from 2000 to 2019, with the most significant rise among boys aged 12 to 14. Eating disorders carry the highest death rate of all mental illnesses, underscoring the need for early detection and intervention.

The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the situation, contributing to increased eating disorder rates due to isolation and reduced access to care. Registered dietitian Samantha Goren noted a shift in body image perceptions among men, stating, “I do see more and more men, both in my practice and in general, who are preoccupied with food and with their bodies.” Additionally, social media influences foster unrealistic body ideals, further impacting young men's self-esteem. Addressing these issues through awareness and accessible resources is essential to combat stigma and ensure that boys and men affected by eating disorders receive the support they need.

Learn more here: https://www.brothersinarmsscotland.co.uk/information/mens-wellbeing-articles/2025/march/21/rising-eating-disorders-among-young-men-breaking-the-stigma/