EDAW 2023
Around 1 in 4 people with eating disorders are men. And yet in 2023, their symptoms can still go unnoticed by those around them.
We’d sooner put the signs down to fussy eating, a busy schedule — even a cry for attention. Right? Not quite.
Just like Bruno, “we don’t talk about” eating disorders in men.
Just like the reboot of Cats, they can’t be brushed under the carpet (try as we might).
And just like The Da Vinci Code, they can be pretty hard to crack.
BREAKING THE MOULD
To better understand these complex mental illnesses — and put gender stereotypes to bed — we launched the UK’s biggest survey to date on men’s experiences with eating disorders.
Of those that took part, 1 in 3 had never accessed treatment. 1 in 5 had never spoken out about their struggles. And 4 in 5 felt raising awareness would help more men get treatment sooner.
THAT’S WHERE YOU CAME IN
This Eating Disorders Awareness Week, we asked you to help us set the record straight:
Yes — men get eating disorders.
But really, stranger things have happened.
Like and share our video, find further information, and download our resources to #HelpMenGetHelp.
HEAR IT FROM HIM
From start to finish, a remarkable group of men helped guide our campaign. Men across the UK, who’ve battled different eating disorders — and come out the other side.
Read their stories
"We haven't had enough diverse body representation of gay men."
2 February 2023
Despite having a large support network, which included friends, family and loving partner, Chris found it difficult to open up.
Read more
“In my head, restricting food meant I’d be accepted better by people that I met. “
2 February 2023
For some, eating disorders can be triggered by trauma. And that’s how it all started for Chris S.
Read more
“Men absolutely have problems with their body image. A lot of men do. They’re just not open about it.”
2 February 2023
Rory’s here to show that men are just as vulnerable to mental health struggles and eating disorders.
Read moreRead our latest blogs for Eating Disorders Awareness week — hear from our male supporters with lived experience of eating disorders.