Common Misconceptions About Eating Disorders
Blog Post by Contributing Editor Selah House
Eating disorders are complex, multifaceted illnesses that affect millions of individuals worldwide. Unfortunately, there are a lot of misconceptions about eating disorders that create stigma and prevent individuals from recognizing when they — or their loved ones — need help. Correcting these myths is vital to helping those suffering from eating disorders access the critical treatment they need and deserve.
In this blog, we will address some of the most common myths about eating disorders, shedding light on the realities behind these serious conditions.
Myth 1: Eating Disorders Have a Certain “Look”
Eating disorders do not fit a particular mold. The stereotype of a person with an eating disorder is often of someone who appears underweight. Yet, the reality is that these disorders affect individuals of all body shapes and sizes.
Disorders like anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder (BED) are not confined to any specific weight or appearance. Those in larger bodies may experience the same struggles as underweight individuals and face unique challenges in validating their experiences.
Recognizing that these conditions impact people regardless of body type is essential. At Selah House, we believe healing starts with acknowledging that every individual with an eating disorder deserves support and care.
Myth 2: Only Teen Girls Develop Eating Disorders
Eating disorders can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender. While eating disorders are often associated with teenage girls, studies show that a significant percentage of people affected are adult men, women, and non-binary individuals.
Research indicates that about 25% of all anorexia and bulimia cases and 36% of BED cases occur in men (source). However, stigma and societal expectations often prevent men from seeking treatment or speaking openly about their struggles.
Many individuals develop disordered eating behaviors in childhood or adolescence, while others may experience their first symptoms in adulthood. Everyone’s experience is valid and deserves professional support regardless of when it begins.
Myth 3: Eating Disorders Are a Choice
A common misconception is that eating disorders are simply a matter of willpower or a choice to engage in certain behaviors. Eating disorders are complex medical and psychological conditions. While the exact cause is not fully understood, research points to several factors that may increase an individual's risk, including:
Genetics – A family history of eating disorders or other mental health conditions can increase risk.
History of mental health disorders or trauma – Past experiences with trauma, depression, or anxiety can increase susceptibility.
Personality traits – Certain traits, such as perfectionism or black-and-white thinking, are commonly associated with eating disorders.
Body image issues and weight stigma – Negative body image and societal pressures can be triggering (source).
Eating disorders are not a choice. They are serious disorders that require immediate professional treatment and support.
Myth 4: “I’m Not Sick Enough to Need Treatment”
One of the most dangerous myths surrounding eating disorders is the belief that someone must be unwell or meet criteria to seek help. This misconception can delay treatment and increase the risk of serious complications. Even those who do not meet all the criteria for anorexia, bulimia, or BED may still face life-threatening consequences (source).
The reality is that eating disorders exist on a spectrum, and each experience is valid. If you are struggling with disordered eating or find yourself considering treatment, remember that you are already deserving of help.
Myth 5: Weight Gain Is the Only Goal of Recovery
For many individuals, weight restoration may be a necessary part of the recovery journey — but it is far from the only goal. True recovery goes beyond weight and appearance. At its core, recovery is about creating a healthier relationship with food, body, and self. The goals of treatment often include:
Reduced anxiety around food – Helping individuals approach meals with more comfort and less fear
Flexibility with food choices – Encouraging adaptability, such as having an unplanned snack or handling a sudden change in meal plans
Eating a variety of foods – Introducing a diverse range of foods to foster a well-rounded diet
Regular meals and snacks – Supporting consistent eating patterns for physical and mental stability
Healthy movement – Shifting focus away from appearance-based exercise to activities that support overall wellness
Decreased focus on weight and appearance – Empowering individuals to view themselves beyond their physical body
Breaking Down Barriers to Treatment
Eating disorder recovery can be challenging, but with the right support and understanding, healing is possible. Each of these myths, if left unchecked, can prevent people from seeking the help they need. By breaking down these misconceptions, we can help reduce the stigma surrounding eating disorders and make it easier for individuals to access compassionate care.
About the Contributor: Selah House is a faith-based eating disorder treatment center for adolescents and adults (ages 12+) that believes individuals can achieve lasting recovery and freedom from anorexia, bulimia, and other eating disorders. Selah House focuses on the individual — not the symptoms — and considers the whole person to ensure long-term recovery. Using individualized treatment plans and evidence-based therapies, they offer treatment for anorexia, bulimia, and other eating disorder treatments at their Indiana-based clinic.