Just like eating disorders don’t discriminate based on race, age or socioeconomic status, they also do not discriminate based on gender identity or sexual orientation.

While the data isn’t extensive, there are some studies that have shown an increased incidence of eating disorders among the LGBT community as compared with other populations. If you’re a member (or ally) of the LGBT community, what do you need to know to help yourself or a loved one struggling with an eating disorder?

Understand the unique risks and challenges that may make you or someone you love more susceptible to developing an eating disorder

Certainly we understand that there is not one “LGBT experience” common to everyone that considers themselves a member of the community. Studies have shown that eating disorders are much more prevalent among men identifying as gay or bisexual than among men identifying as heterosexual. Among women identifying as lesbian or bisexual, the prevalence of eating disorders among those who consider themselves feminine have shown to be similar to heterosexual women, but the prevalence is lower in lesbian and bisexual women who consider themselves androgynous or masculine. It can be deduced that this variance is related to the body image ideals within these particular groups. For transgender individuals, gender dysphoria can often result in efforts to change shape, weight and other elements of appearance that are frequently associated with eating disorders.

Consider the role that sexual orientation or gender identity status may play in perpetuating the eating disorder

Coming out can bring fear of rejection from friends and loved ones, being that LGBT individuals often experience discrimination, bullying and even violence as a result. Not coming out, though, can also contribute to negative self-perceptions, gender dysphoria, lack of support, isolation and other mental health issues that can lead to the development of an eating disorder. We’ve seen a number of clients who are able to develop increased support and a sense of community and positive identity by coming out, also experiencing improved self-esteem and confidence. If you haven’t come out, a trusted friend or resources like It Gets Better Project can provide invaluable support.

Evaluate risk factors specific to your own personal environment and relationships

What is your body image ideal? What media and sociocultural messages do you hang onto and internalize? What do your friends and loved ones value and aspire to be? If everyone around you is aiming for an unrealistic “thin ideal” or “muscular ideal,” then it’s likely you’ll be impacted by that goal. Finding a community of body positive supports and peers can help shift the focus away from constantly working to change something about yourself. Surround yourself with people who make you feel good!

Find treatment providers and/or programming that are sensitive to your needs, use LGBT affirming language, and make you feel comfortable

When searching for treatment programs or outpatient mental health or medical providers, do your research and ask questions. You deserve to be treated with respect and compassion by providers, and never lose your sense of comfort. This means treatment staff need to be well-educated and are informed on how to maintain a safe environment for all clients.

Walden’s Rainbow Road treatment program provides individualized treatment for the LGBTQ+ community by staff who identify as LGBTQ+ with therapy centered around how sexual orientation and gender identity impact recovery.

Find support in your community outside treatment, and if it doesn’t exist, create it!

If you’re looking for something you can’t find, chances are that others share your need! Certainly when first seeking treatment and early in recovery, you need to focus on your own needs and avoid getting pulled too much into others’ concerns. However, there may come a point when you want to share your experience to help others through advocacy, awareness or mentorship. Share your story, write a blog, start a support group, volunteer your time—your efforts can “pay it forward” to the next people who come along sharing your struggles. Long-term recovery may also mean that you need to shift your social circle, educate family members and loved ones about eating disorders, and distance yourself from people and places that allow your eating disorder to thrive.

Are you (or do you know) a member of the LGBT community looking for help? We’re here to support you!

Emily Slager, M.Ed., LMHC, is director of Walden’s Hickory Drive Clinic. She is responsible for providing clinical, administrative and fiscal oversight as well as development for the clinic. Previously, she was director of residential, partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs for adolescents and adults at Walden’s Waltham location. In that role, she oversaw all aspects of these programs including administrative, fiscal and clinical management. Formerly, she was a clinician on Walden’s inpatient eating disorder and psychiatric units. Ms. Slager earned her master’s degree in counseling psychology from Boston College. Her professional interests include the development of eating disorders in athletes and in the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community.