When most people picture someone with anorexia nervosa, they often imagine a young woman. But that stereotype hides a very real truth: men struggle with anorexia too, and far more often than society realises.
At ABBI Clinic, we see this every day. Men walk through our doors after years of silent suffering often dismissed, misunderstood, or simply overlooked. An estimated one in four people with an eating disorder in the UK are male. Yet many of these men never get diagnosed or treated.
This blog explores why anorexia in men often goes unnoticed, and how early recognition and specialised treatment can save lives.
The Hidden Face of Anorexia in Men
Anorexia nervosa is a serious psychological condition characterised by intense fear of gaining weight, distorted body image and extreme food restriction.
While symptoms are similar for both genders, men often present them differently. Many strive for a lean, muscular physique rather than thinness, a goal normalised by modern fitness culture. This difference means anorexia in men is frequently misread as dedication to health or exercise, not a mental health struggle.
At ABBI Clinic, we’ve seen how perfectionism, control, and emotional distress fuel disordered behaviours often masked by “healthy living” routines.
Why Men Often Go Undiagnosed?
1. Stereotypes and Stigma
Eating disorders are still widely seen as a “women’s issue.” That misconception makes it difficult for men to admit they’re struggling.
Common barriers include:
- Fear of being judged or labelled as weak.
- Lack of male representation in awareness campaigns.
- Social pressure to “man up” and stay silent.
Many men downplay their symptoms or avoid seeking help altogether. Unfortunately, this delay often allows the illness to deepen, making recovery more complex.
2. Medical Misdiagnosis
Even today, medical professionals can overlook anorexia in men. Weight loss might be attributed to fitness, stress, or lifestyle changes instead of disordered eating.
A 2022 UK study in the British Journal of Psychiatry found that men are significantly less likely to be diagnosed early, despite similar symptom severity to women. This delay can lead to malnutrition, depression, and other physical complications.
That’s why at ABBI Clinic, our team is trained to spot the subtle signs from obsessive food rituals to over-exercise that are often missed in male patients.
3. The Fitness Illusion
Social media glorifies the “perfect male body”, toned abs, low body fat and constant discipline. But behind the six-pack trend lies a darker reality: orthorexia and anorexia masked as clean eating.
Red flags include:
- Cutting out entire food groups.
- Feeling guilt after eating “imperfectly.”
- Exercising excessively to “burn off” calories.
What starts as a commitment to health can spiral into dangerous control. At ABBI Clinic, we help men rebuild a balanced relationship with food, exercise and self-worth.
4. Lack of Awareness in Families and Schools
Because anorexia looks different in boys, warning signs often go unnoticed. Teachers or parents might praise a teenager for being “disciplined” without realising the behaviour is harmful.
In reality, early intervention is crucial. The NHS notes that prompt treatment can dramatically improve recovery rates. This is why ABBI Clinic works to raise awareness in schools and communities to help families recognise disordered eating early on.
The Cost of Being Undiagnosed
Anorexia isn’t just about food it affects the entire body and mind.
When untreated, it can lead to:
- Severe malnutrition and organ failure.
- Heart issues and weakened bones.
- Low testosterone and fertility problems.
- Depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts.
According to the NHS, anorexia has the highest mortality rate of any mental illness which makes awareness and timely treatment essential.
Breaking the Silence: How ABBI Clinic Helps?
ABBI Clinic offers specialised eating disorder treatment designed to meet men’s unique needs. Our approach combines evidence-based therapy, nutritional support, and emotional guidance.
Our approach includes:
- Psychological Therapy to challenge disordered thinking.
- Dietitian-led support to restore healthy eating patterns.
- Family and partner therapy to strengthen understanding and communication.
- Aftercare plans to prevent relapse and maintain progress.
We provide a safe, non-judgemental space for men to explore emotions, rebuild self-esteem, and recover fully.
Learn more about our Anorexia Treatment Services.
Encouraging More Men to Seek Help
Breaking the stigma starts with open conversation. Every time we talk about male eating disorders, we make it easier for someone to step forward.
Here’s how we can all help:
- Challenge stereotypes about who gets eating disorders.
- Encourage men to talk about mental health.
- Educate families, schools, and workplaces about early signs.
Recovery is possible and help is available at ABBI Clinic.
FAQs
1. Can men develop anorexia nervosa?
Yes. Men are just as susceptible, though it often looks different due to social pressures around fitness and masculinity.
2. Why do men hide their symptoms?
Because of stigma and misconceptions that eating disorders only affect women. Many fear being misunderstood.
3. What are signs of anorexia in men?
Extreme dieting, rigid exercise, body image obsession, fatigue, or anxiety around eating.
4. How can ABBI Clinic help?
Our team provides personalised therapy, nutritional support, and ongoing recovery care for men.
5. Where can I get more information?
Visit the NHS Anorexia Page for more guidance.
Final Thoughts
Men living with anorexia deserve to be seen, understood and supported not overlooked because of outdated assumptions.
At ABBI Clinic, we’re changing that narrative. Our compassionate specialists provide tailored, confidential support for men ready to reclaim their health and confidence. Start your journey to recovery today.
Speak to our specialist and take the first step towards healing.
