"As many as a third of people with eating disorders are men or boys. But boys are often missed because people think of eating disorders as something that only affects girls. Eating disorders tend to look different in boys. That makes sense, since what boys are told the “ideal body” looks like is different from the message girls get."

The Child Mind Institute has published an important article shedding light on the often-overlooked issue of eating disorders in boys and young men. It provides valuable insights for parents, educators, and healthcare professionals on recognizing, understanding, and addressing this growing concern.

Key highlights of the article include:

• The prevalence of eating disorders in males, with estimates suggesting that a quarter to a third of those affected are male.
• The unique manifestation of eating disorders in boys, often focused on achieving a muscular physique rather than extreme thinness.
• Signs to watch for, including excessive exercise, rigid eating habits, and obsession with body image.
• The societal factors contributing to eating disorders in boys, such as media portrayals of idealized male bodies.
• Health consequences specific to males with eating disorders, including low testosterone levels and risks associated with steroid use.
• Challenges in seeking help due to stigma and the predominance of female-focused treatment programs.

This resource offers crucial information to help identify and address eating disorders in boys, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and the availability of effective treatments for male patients. The information is also available as an audio recording and in PDF format.