Counseling Center gears up to combat eating disorders

“Everybody Knows Somebody” is the theme for this year’s National Eating Disorder Awareness Week, NEDA.
According to a 2004 survey conducted by Princeton University Health Services, 30 percent of college students have or will experience with eating disorder symptoms during their college years.
Eating disorders are a growing problem for college students, and raising awareness is important to the University. The Counseling Center will set up an interactive display on the first floor of the RUC and the fitness center Feb. 25- 29.
The Counseling Center teamed up with the School of Human Ecology to present a workshop for NEDA week Feb. 28 at 11a.m. in the Tech Pride Room. The workshop will be lead by senior nutrition students who will explore weight loss and eating disorder issues.
“The media sets a standard that normal, real people will never achieve,” Christina Mick, assistant director of clinical services, said.
There are a number of various factors that may lead to eating disorders, however, the growing prominence of the media and their narrow definitions of beauty remain among the most likely causes.
It is important to recognize the possible warning signs of someone suffering from an eating disorder. Some typical warning signs are dramatic weight loss, preoccupation with weight and food, excessive diuretic or laxative use, withdrawal from usual friends or activities, digestion problems, and throat issues or complications.
“Eating disorders are real, and they come in all shapes and sizes. I think it’s important for friends to recognize the issue and seek professional help for their loved one,” Candice Allen, counseling center graduate assistant said.
Those suffering from an eating disorder can benefit from having supportive friends who are willing to provide them with resources, encouragement and avoid being judgmental.
The Counseling Center is always available to assist students with any concerns. Please visit room 307 in the RUC or the Counseling Center’s website to schedule an appointment.
If you have any questions regarding NEDA week, visit the National Eating Disorder Awareness website for more information.