Understanding the Intersection of Non-Binary Identity and Eating Disorders: An MSS Student Interns Perspective

Authored by Mandy Krysziak, MSS Candidate and The Understory Group Intern

As an intern, I have worked with many individuals who struggle with eating disorders, but one group that I have seen particularly unique challenges in navigating is those who identify as non-binary. Non-binary people, who do not fit within the traditional male or female gender binary, often face unique pressures related to their body image, which can be compounded by societal expectations and internal struggles regarding gender identity. Understanding the intersection of non-binary identity and eating disorders is crucial for providing compassionate and effective care. 

The Influence of Gender Expectations 

In many cultures, there are rigid, prescriptive expectations for how male and female bodies should look. These expectations are heavily emphasized in the media, advertising, and even in the healthcare system. For individuals who identify as non-binary, these binary gender norms can feel alienating or oppressive. There may be an intense pressure to conform to a particular body type or appearance that aligns with neither masculinity nor femininity. This pressure to fit into an ambiguous "in-between" body type can trigger or exacerbate disordered eating behaviors, as individuals try to mold themselves into an ideal that feels unattainable or undefined. 

Non-binary individuals may experience a form of "gender dysphoria" related to their body, which can manifest as a sense of disconnect between their physical form and their gender identity. This dysphoria can lead to the desire to control or manipulate their body shape and size as a way of alleviating discomfort with their physical appearance. In some cases, eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating disorder may arise as coping mechanisms for this distress. 

The Impact of Societal Stigma and Erasure 

One of the most significant challenges non-binary individuals face is societal erasure. Mainstream culture often lacks a nuanced understanding of non-binary identity, and non-binary individuals may feel invisible or invalidated. This can lead to a profound sense of isolation, which is a risk factor for mental health issues, including eating disorders. The struggle for recognition, the lack of inclusive spaces, and the lack of representation in media can all contribute to a non-binary person’s sense of disconnection, making eating disorders a maladaptive way to cope with these feelings. 

Moreover, non-binary individuals may also face heightened stigma related to their bodies that doesn't adhere to the norms of binary gender presentations. They may experience discrimination or judgment based on the perception that their body doesn’t fit into prescribed categories of masculinity or femininity, adding another layer of psychological distress. This distress can push individuals toward trying to manipulate their bodies through unhealthy eating behaviors in an attempt to escape from or align with expectations that they can't fully achieve or that don’t even apply to them. 

The Importance of Gender-Inclusive Care 

As an intern, one of the most important aspects of working with non-binary clients who are struggling with eating disorders is recognizing the complexity of their experiences and identities. Gender-inclusive care begins with affirming the person’s gender identity without making assumptions or forcing them into predefined categories. It’s essential to ask open-ended questions and allow clients to express how they experience their gender and their bodies, creating a safe space for them to be heard. 

For non-binary individuals, therapy should be focused on both body acceptance and gender identity exploration. In addition to helping clients develop a healthier relationship with food and their bodies, it’s important to address any gender dysphoria they may experience and to explore how their body image struggles intersect with their sense of self. Therapy may involve body positivity work, developing coping skills for gender-related stressors, and exploring how societal expectations impact their mental and emotional well-being.

Addressing Unique Needs 

A therapeutic approach for non-binary individuals with eating disorders may need to be adapted to better support their unique needs. For example, non-binary clients may benefit from therapy that focuses not just on food behaviors but also on self-esteem and gender-related issues. Interventions may include: 

•Exploring body image in the context of gender identity: 

Understanding that negative body image may not solely stem from societal beauty standards but also from the discomfort with gender presentation and expectations. 

•Building self-compassion: 

Encouraging non-binary individuals to practice self-compassion and to challenge the internalized beliefs that may have been shaped by societal gender norms. 

•Creating a supportive and inclusive environment: 

Offering a safe space where clients can explore their identity and engage in open conversations about their eating habits and body image concerns without fear of judgment. 

•Collaborating with other healthcare providers: 

This might include working with dietitians, endocrinologists, or other mental health professionals who are knowledgeable about gender identity issues and eating disorders, ensuring a holistic approach to care. 

Conclusion 

The intersection of non-binary identity and eating disorders is a deeply complex and nuanced issue. For non-binary individuals, their struggle with body image is not solely tied to societal standards of beauty, but often to the painful and confusing relationship between their gender identity and their physical appearance. As therapists, it is essential that we approach this issue with sensitivity, understanding, and an openness to learning about our clients’ unique experiences. By providing compassionate, gender-inclusive care, we can help non-binary individuals navigate the challenges of both eating disorders and gender identity, and support them in their journey toward healing and self-acceptance.