19/06/2026
For Men’s Health Week, we invited questions around men’s mental health, eating disorders, stigma and support.
Dewald Louw, Psychologist at Orri, has answered some of the questions you shared below.
Responses have been lightly formatted for readability.
**Q: How do men cope with eating disorders?**
“Unfortunately, many men initially cope by attempting to manage the problem alone.
This may include rationalising behaviours as ‘healthy living’, ‘fitness’, or ‘discipline’. Distracting themselves through work, sport, gaming, or substance use. Suppressing emotions and avoiding conversations about their struggles.
More adaptive coping strategies tend to involve recognising that eating disorders are health conditions rather than character flaws. Talking openly with trusted people. Working with professionals who understand men's experiences of eating disorders.”
**Q: How can men handle disordered eating when they are hesitant to seek help?**
“Many men hesitate because they worry they will be judged, misunderstood, or seen as weak.
If someone is not ready for formal treatment, there are still constructive first steps: Start by acknowledging that something feels off, even if you are unsure whether it qualifies as an eating disorder.
Focus on curiosity rather than self-criticism: ‘What is this behaviour doing for me?’ rather than ‘Why can't I just stop?’
Consider anonymous or low-pressure options, such as online support communities or educational resources.”
**Q: What can men do to feel more able to reach out for support regarding their eating?**
“Many men have been taught that strength means independence. In reality, strength can also mean responding effectively when something is not working.
Remind yourself that eating disorders affect men of all ages, body sizes, professions, and athletic abilities.
Write down your concerns before speaking if talking feels difficult.
Remember that uncertainty is enough reason to seek support. You do not need to ‘prove’ that your problem is serious.”
**Q: What are common signs of disordered eating in men that people often miss?**
“Eating disorders in men often go unnoticed because they may not fit stereotypes.
Some commonly overlooked signs include: Excessive focus on muscularity - Rather than wanting to be thinner, some men become preoccupied with becoming larger, leaner, or more muscular.
Weight is not always a reliable indicator - A man can have a serious eating disorder while appearing to be at an average, higher, or athletic weight.
Mood and emotional changes can often be an indicator that someone is going through a challenging period.”
**Q: How can I be a better advocate for men’s mental health as a woman?**
“Women often play an important role in creating environments where men feel safe discussing emotional difficulties.
Treat men's emotional experiences as legitimate rather than unusual.
Challenge stereotypes that equate masculinity with emotional suppression.
Use language that emphasises courage, growth, and wellbeing rather than weakness or dysfunction.
Be aware that men may express distress differently, sometimes through irritability, withdrawal, overworking, risk-taking, or physical complaints.”
**Q: What is the best way to reduce shame around mental health for men close to you?**
“Shame tends to decrease when people feel accepted, understood, and not alone.
Normalise without minimising - This reduces isolation while still taking the problem seriously.
Separate the person from the problem - Help them see that experiencing depression, anxiety, or an eating disorder does not define who they are.
Model vulnerability - Appropriate self-disclosure can demonstrate that everyone faces challenges and that discussing them is acceptable.
Stay connected - People often recover more effectively when they experience consistent support rather than one-off conversations.”
If you are worried about yourself or someone close to you, support is available.
You can take our free eating disorder assessment via the link in our bio, or contact our team for a free, confidential conversation.
