Yet according to one survey, 77 percent of gay men have felt judged or objectified because of their body, with 58 percent reporting pressure to look attractive. Eating disorders and negative body image are often thought of as issues affecting only women. I am terrified I will never be thin again.Īccording to the National Eating Disorders Association, more than 10 million American men will develop an eating disorder in their lifetimes. I am furious that I haven’t been more disciplined. I’m frustrated I haven’t lost more weight. My doctor says that’s par for the course and not to beat myself up for it. I’ve gained about 15 back since I quit smoking. Unlike most of the people I see on social media who lament gaining weight in lockdown, I lost 50 pounds in 2020. Again, it’s cliché, but only because it is true. Mostly, though, this was weight gained from eating and drinking to treat depression. Some of this was from a sedentary lifestyle I worked in an office until 2019, and now I work from home.
In my 30s I’ve gained a considerable amount of weight.
