Ithaca College

As National Eating Disorders Awareness Week comes to a close, it’s important to understand the true nature of eating disorders. Maybe you had no idea that you can’t always tell by looking that someone is in the throes of an eating disorder, or that for some, innocently beginning a diet can lead to a full-blown eating disorder. They are serious illnesses and not a phase or a lifestyle choice.

When someone has an eating disorder, it is vital to seek help. Because of the complex nature of the illness, a comprehensive treatment team which includes medical, nutritional, and psychological therapies is recommended. The earlier treatment begins, the better chance there is for a full recovery.

You can contact any of the following resources on campus to get help for yourself or for a friend. Consultations are confidential. 

·         The Center for Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) (607-274-3136) provides initial assessments, a weekly support group, and short term individual counseling, as well as assistance with referrals for long term services. 

·         Hammond Health Center (607-274-3177) offers physical exams, lab work, and medical follow-up. 

·         Registered dietitian/nutritionist Cathy J. Saloff-Coste (607-277-2053) is available on campus and in her downtown office to provide individualized nutrition counseling. 

·         Nancy Reynolds, Program Director of the Center for Health Promotion (607-274-7933) provides educational consultations for students with concerns about eating disorders. 

The following websites also provide reliable information and resources:

www.nationaleatingdisorders.org (National Eating Disorders Association, NEDA)

www.anad.org (National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders, or ANAD)

www.edcatalogue.com (Gürze-Salucore Eating Disorders Resource Catalogue) (800-756-7533) 

www.ithaca.edu/sacl/healthpromotion/nutrition/eatingproblems/ (Ithaca College Center for Health Promotion)

Refer to this past Monday’s and Wednesday’s Intercom emails for more information on eating disorders.

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.