At TBITC, we believe that every person should feel safe, seen, and empowered to thrive in all environments, regardless of gender or sexuality. LGBTQ+ History Month serves as a time to recognise the unique mental health challenges faced by this community, especially when it comes to LGBTQIA+ eating disorders. Through education and advocacy, we help foster environments where every LGBTQIA+ individual feels supported, particularly in navigating the complexities of eating disorders. This blog explores the prevalence of eating disorders in the LGBTQIA+ community, barriers to accessing care, and how to provide support.

Prevalence of LGBTQIA+ Eating Disorders

Eating disorders affect people of all identities, but research shows that LGBTQIA+ individuals are disproportionately impacted. According to BEAT, up to 42% of men with eating disorders identify as gay, and 15% of transgender college students struggle with eating disorders. While sexual or gender identity alone does not predict who will develop an eating disorder, experiences related to identity can contribute to the development or maintenance of eating disorders. External pressures, discrimination, and internalised stigma often exacerbate these issues.

Factors Contributing to LGBTQIA+ Eating Disorders

Eating disorders in the LGBTQIA+ community are driven by a range of factors, including:

• Discrimination, harassment, and bullying related to sexual orientation or gender identity.
• Anxiety and fear of rejection around the coming-out process.
• Internalised homophobia, transphobia, or misogyny, which can foster self-criticism and disordered behaviours.
• Gender dysphoria in transgender and non-binary individuals may contribute to body dissatisfaction.
• Appearance ideals in certain LGBTQIA+ subcultures, where physical appearance can be heavily emphasised.

While these factors contribute to LGBTQIA+ eating disorders, eating disorders are multifaceted and complex. They develop due to a range of biological, psychological, and social factors that are not distinct to gender and sexuality.

Barriers to Support and How We Overcome Them at TBITC

LGBTQIA+ individuals face unique barriers to accessing care, including discrimination in healthcare settings and fear of rejection. At TBITC, we work diligently to remove these barriers by providing:

• Affirmative care: All our practitioners are trained to offer LGBTQIA+-inclusive, affirming care that addresses the specific needs of the community.
• Safe spaces: We create environments free from judgment or discrimination, empowering people to seek the care they need.
• Whole-person support: We acknowledge that recovery is deeply personal. Therefore, we offer holistic care that respects and celebrates the individual’s identity and lived experiences.

How to Support Someone with an LGBTQIA+ Eating Disorder

If someone you know is experiencing an eating disorder, it’s essential to provide understanding and affirming support. Here are a few ways to help:

• Listen without judgment: Encourage open, non-judgmental conversations that respect their unique journey. Their sexual or gender identity is a part of the story, but not the sole factor.
• Challenge harmful ideals: Stereotypes about appearance, especially in certain LGBTQIA+ subcultures, can harm individuals. Counter these ideals by promoting body acceptance and positivity.
• Promote affirming environments: Whether at home, in schools, or social settings, fostering safe, affirming spaces is crucial for their well-being.

Inclusive Eating Disorder Care for All

At TBITC, we believe that LGBTQIA+ eating disorder care should be inclusive and supportive for everyone, regardless of identity. Each person, queer-identifying or not, deserves access to compassionate, personalised care. We dedicate our services to creating spaces where individuals feel safe, valued, and supported throughout their recovery journey.

If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, know that help is available, and recovery is possible. Eating disorders are complex, but with the right support, you can honour your identity and your wellbeing. You can visit Our Services page to learn more about our services or contact us directly to start your journey toward recovery.