In recent years, anorexia nervosa has become one of the fastest-growing mental health challenges among teenagers in the UK. Once considered a “girls-only” issue, anorexia now affects both teen girls and boys at alarming rates. Studies show that up to 25% of people with anorexia are male, and hospital admissions for eating disorders among boys have more than doubled in the last decade.
At ABBI Clinic, we work closely with young people and families, helping them overcome the psychological and physical effects of anorexia with personalised, evidence-based care.
1. Why Are Teen Eating Disorders Increasing?
The Changing Face of Anorexia in Teens
Teenagers today face pressures that didn’t exist a generation ago. The rise in social media comparison, body image obsession and academic stress has created the perfect storm for disordered eating to thrive.
Social Media and Unrealistic Standards
Platforms like Instagram and TikTok often promote filtered perfection leading teens to believe that thinner equals better. Research by the Mental Health Foundation shows that 40% of teens say social media images make them feel insecure about their bodies.
Teens may:
- Compare themselves with influencers or athletes.
- Feel pressure to “fit in” through appearance.
- Restrict food to achieve a certain image.
For boys, this often manifests as a drive for muscle definition or “cut” physiques. For girls, it’s the pursuit of thinness. Both are rooted in the same core issue of low body satisfaction.
2. Psychological and Cultural Pressures
It’s Not Just About Food
Anorexia isn’t really about wanting to be thin, it’s often about control. When life feels overwhelming, controlling food or body image can become a coping mechanism.
Triggers include:
- Academic pressure and fear of failure
- Bullying or body shaming
- Family conflict or trauma
- Low self-esteem or anxiety
Recent NHS figures show that hospital admissions for eating disorders in under-18s have risen by 35% in the past five years. This growth reflects deeper societal stressors rather than vanity or diet culture alone.
3. Boys and Anorexia: Breaking the Silence
The Hidden Struggle
Male anorexia often goes unnoticed. Boys might not talk about their struggles due to the stigma and the belief that eating disorders are “a girls’ problem.”
However, NHS data shows that 1 in 4 people with an eating disorder in the UK are male. Many young men focus on restrictive diets, excessive gym routines, or calorie counting under the guise of “fitness.”
Warning signs in boys:
- Skipping meals to “cut fat”
- Extreme exercise routines
- Withdrawal from social life
- Anxiety around eating with others
At ABBI Clinic, we help break this silence encouraging open, judgement-free conversations where both boys and girls can seek help confidently.
How ABBI Clinic Supports Recovery?
At ABBI Clinic, we understand that recovery is not one-size-fits-all. Our team uses a holistic approach that treats the mind, body, and emotions together.
Our anorexia treatment includes:
- One-to-one therapy to uncover emotional triggers
- Family therapy for understanding and support
- Nutritional rehabilitation guided by registered dietitians
- Aftercare programmes for relapse prevention
Our goal is to help teens rediscover confidence, control and joy in life without letting food define them.
What Parents and Schools Can Do?
Spotting the Early Signs
Early intervention saves lives. If you notice unusual eating habits, sudden weight loss or emotional withdrawal, don’t dismiss it as “just a phase.”
Look out for:
- Skipping family meals
- Constant talk about calories or body size
- Excessive exercising
- Anxiety after eating
Encourage open communication, stay supportive, and reach out for professional help. You can find resources on the NHS Eating Disorder Support page or contact ABBI Clinic for a confidential consultation.
FAQs
1. What age group is most at risk of anorexia?
Teens aged 13–19 are at the highest risk especially during puberty and exam years.
2. Can boys get anorexia?
Yes. About 25% of people with anorexia are male though many go undiagnosed due to stigma.
3. What causes anorexia in teenagers?
A mix of social, emotional and genetic factors including stress, body image pressure and perfectionism.
4. How can parents help a child with anorexia?
Encourage honest conversation, avoid blame and seek early professional help like that offered at ABBI Clinic.
5. How long does anorexia recovery take?
Recovery varies. With consistent therapy and support many teens see improvement within 6–12 months.
Final Thoughts
Anorexia among teens isn’t just a trend, it’s a mental health crisis that needs compassion, understanding, and early action. At ABBI Clinic, we believe recovery is possible for every young person. With professional help, supportive families, and open communication, teens can reclaim health, happiness and hope.
Explore our Eating Disorder Treatment Page to learn how we can support your child’s journey towards recovery.
