February 22-28 is National Eating Disorders Awareness Week (NEDAW), and the theme this year is “I had no idea.” It is time to dispel some of the common myths about eating disorders and to get the real facts. February 22-28 is National Eating Disorders Awareness Week (NEDAW), and the theme this year is “I had no idea.” It is time to dispel some of the common myths about eating disorders and to get the real facts.
Up to twenty four million people of all ages and genders suffer from an eating disorder in the United States. These are serious, potentially life-threatening illnesses, not lifestyle choices. Eating disorders impact not only those who are ill, but also their friends, family, and the whole community.
Eating disorders are particularly prevalent in college-aged individuals. In fact, 43% report onset between ages 16 and 20.6. Eating disorders often begin with a desire to improve health through nutrition and exercise. For some people this goal becomes obsessive, and before they realize it, that quest paradoxically makes them sick.
Individuals suffering from an eating disorder do not necessarily look emaciated. What you may notice is that they may have become significantly pre-occupied with weight, food, and body shape. They may be following a strict diet, or have begun an intense exercise regimen. For many, they are feeling depressed and moody, and they isolate themselves from their usual social activities, including eating meals with friends.
Whether you are personally affected or are supporting a friend, it is important to get the help and support needed when dealing with an eating disorder. This often includes a physician, a counselor or therapist, and a nutritionist. Ithaca College offers services in an individualized and confidential setting. For immediate concerns, you can call Hammond Health at 274-3177, CAPS at 274-3136, or the dietitian/nutritionist Cathy J. Saloff-Coste at 277-2053.
In support of NEDAW, Active Minds and Feminists United will be providing information in Campus Center all week. They have also organized a panel discussion on eating disorders, scheduled for this Wednesday, February 25 from 6:30-7:30pm in Friends 304. Panel members from the Center for Counseling, Health and Wellness will be Alice Meilman, LCSW; Vivian Lorenzo, MD; and Cathy J. Saloff-Coste, MS, RDN. Location TBA.
Check back in on Wednesday and Friday for more information on eating disorders and resources for getting help.
Individuals with disabilities requiring accommodations should contact Nancy Reynolds at nreynolds@ithaca.edu or (607) 274-3136. We ask that requests for accommodations be made as soon as possible.
https://www.ithaca.edu/intercom/article.php/20150218094820548