Ithaca College

Submitted on behalf of IC Nutritionist Cathy J. Saloff-Coste, MS, RDN, CDN, CEDRD

February 25-March 3 is National Eating Disorders Awareness Week (NEDAW), and the goal this year is to move toward inclusivity in the eating disorders community. Eating disorders affect more groups than traditionally recognized, and all individuals should have the opportunity to share their stories, recognize that their stories are valid and welcome, and pursue the treatment they need, whoever they are and wherever they are in their path to recovery.

Eating disorders affect all kinds of people. No gender, sexual orientation, age, race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic group is immune. Teens and young adults are particularly vulnerable to developing eating disorders, and recent research suggests that transgender people may be at increased risk as well. Up to 30% of college women and men meet the criteria for the illness, and 30 million Americans will suffer from an eating disorder at some point in their life.

Eating disorders are complex mental and physical illnesses with the highest mortality rate of any mental illness. The causes have not been completely elucidated, but seem to be related to a range of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors. They are not lifestyle choices, and they profoundly impact not only those who are ill, but also their friends, family, and the whole community.

 Eating disorders often begin with a desire to improve health through nutrition and exercise. For some people with a genetic vulnerability and possibly a tendency toward perfectionism, this commendable goal becomes obsessive, and before they realize it, that quest paradoxically makes them terribly sick. For others, their physical body does not match with their sense of self, and this discrepancy, along with the increased stress and stigma associated with their situation, can lead to trying to change their appearance and to an increased vulnerability to eating disorders.

 Individuals suffering from an eating disorder do not necessarily look emaciated. What you may notice is that they may have become significantly preoccupied 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 daily activities, including their academic pursuits and eating meals with friends.

 The earlier an eating disorder is recognized and treatment begins, the better chance there is for a full recovery. If you are concerned that you or a friend may have a problem, you can take a confidential eating disorder screening through CAPS at Ithaca College by connecting to http://screening.mentalhealthscreening.org/hope and following the prompts.

 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 treatment team of clinicians, including a physician, a therapist, and a nutritionist. Ithaca College offers services in an individualized and confidential setting. For immediate concerns, you can call Hammond Health at 607-274-3177; CAPS at 607-274-3136; the nutritionist Cathy J. Saloff-Coste, MS, RDN, CDN, CEDRD, at 607-277-2053; or the Program Director of the Center for Health Promotion, Nancy Reynolds, at 607-274-7933.

Check back in on Wednesday and Friday for more information on eating disorders and resources for getting help.