When we think of eating disorders, we often picture teenage girls obsessing over calories or weight. But this stereotype overlooks a silent and growing group — men. At Private Space, we’re seeing more males in Singapore coming forward with eating disorders, spanning from teens to successful men in their 30s.
What Are Eating Disorders?
There are three main types of eating disorders:
- Anorexia Nervosa – marked by severe restriction of food, resulting in being underweight.
- Bulimia Nervosa – involves cycles of bingeing and compensatory mechanism (e.g. purging, restricting food, or over-exercising) often in individuals of normal weight.
- Binge-Eating Disorder – characterised by repeated overeating without compensatory mechanism like purging, typically leading to weight gain.
Across all types, there’s a distorted relationship with food and body image. Historically, women are more likely to seek help — roughly 10 times more than men. But community studies suggest the real ratio might be closer to 4:1. Many men struggle silently.
Why Are More Men Seeking Help Now?
We’re seeing a real shift. Men are increasingly willing to talk about issues like body dissatisfaction, emotional eating, and unresolved childhood trauma. The rise in awareness, reduced stigma, and a broader conversation about men’s mental health are helping more come forward.
How Do Eating Disorders Look Different in Men?
While some symptoms overlap with women, men often present differently:
- More focus on muscularity than thinness — chasing a lean, athletic look
- Restrictive diets centered around “clean eating” — think chicken breast, broccoli, no carbs
- Bingeing on foods they have tried to avoid — rice, bread, fried food
- Compensating with excessive exercise instead of purging — long runs or daily gym sessions, rain or shine.
This can look deceptively healthy from the outside, but the underlying distress is real.
What’s Driving This Trend in Singapore?
Social media is a big part of the story. Heavily edited images, filters, and body ideals set unrealistic standards, especially for young men. Apps like Meitu can transform one’s face and body to the point of unreality. Combined with the high-pressure, competitive culture in Singapore, it’s no surprise that body image issues are growing among men.
The Hidden Struggles Men Face
Men often delay seeking help because of:
- Shame and the belief that eating disorders are a “female problem”
- Stigma around appearing vulnerable or needing mental health support
- Fear about their future and whether they’ll be judged
How Can You Support Someone Who’s Struggling?
Eating disorders are controlling, often affecting the whole family. I’ve seen parents prepare separate low-calorie meals just to help a child feel safe enough to eat.
If you’re concerned about someone:
- Use empathetic “I” statements, like “I’m worried about you.”
- Avoid criticism or blame — it often backfires
- Look for the right moment to offer support gently
* If it’s a child or teenager, don’t back away. Early help matters
Frequently Asked Questions About Eating Disorders in Men
Are eating disorders in men linked to other mental health issues like depression or anxiety?
Depression and anxiety disorders are common co-morbidities. Sometimes, disordered eating becomes a coping strategy — a way to manage emotional distress when other support is missing. Therefore, in treatment, it is important to address other coping mechanisms.
What age groups are most affected?
It often begins in the teenage years, especially during puberty and body changes. But I also see men in their 20s, 30s, and even beyond. Many men delay seeking help. But it’s never too early, or too late, to seek help
Does treatment differ for men?
The treatment structure — involving medication, nutritional rehabilitation, and psychological support — is the same. But we often need to adjust for men’s specific concerns. For instance, the desire for a muscular or “shredded” physique is more common in men. Therapy must also address male-specific shame and stigma, especially in group or family settings where they may feel out of place.
Are there any myths you’d like to bust?
Yes — two, actually.
One: That eating disorders are a “female issue.” They’re not.
Two: That men with eating disorders must be gay. This is a common misconception. Studies found that heterosexual males are equally affected. Eating disorders, like most medical conditions, affect people of all genders and sexual orientations.
Where to Get Help in Singapore
Eating disorders are complex and require specialised care. Not every therapist or psychiatrist has the right training. In the public sector, KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital and Singapore General Hospital have dedicated services. In the private sector, do check the provider’s credentials — those with specific experience in eating disorder units are best placed to help.
With proper support, full recovery is possible. At Private Space, all our psychiatrists (medical doctor specialists) have experience in treating eating disorders. We are committed to creating a safe, stigma-free environment for anyone — including men — to get the care they deserve.
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Dr Victor Kwok
Senior Consultant Psychiatrist
Senior Consultant Psychiatrist
