Weight fluctuations are common in college. Gaining the average fifteen pounds, or the "Freshman 15," is easy to do between cafeteria food, all-night study sessions, too much beer, and not enough exercise. But when food and weight becomes an obsession, it can turn deadly. Eating disorders affect both men and women. They include anorexia nervosa (self-starvation) and bulimia (binging and purging).

 

      Eating disorders are not about food. They are expressions of perceived social pressure, poor body image, feeling a lack of control, extreme stress, and emotional needs. The illness can be devastating and warps the way a person sees herself. Those with eating disorders often experience enormous feelings of guilt and shame. Some may exercise compulsively, avoid social situations involving food, lie about how much food has been consumed, or only eat in private.

 

      Eating disorders are treatable, and the sooner a person gets help the better. Anorexia nervosa can lead to death from cardiac arrest and electrolyte imbalance. Here are the warning signs:

Symptoms of Anorexia Nervosa

 

Intense fear of gaining weight or becoming fat, even though underweight

Symptoms of Bulimia

 

Binge eating (eating a large amount of food within a two-hour period)

Feeling a lack of control while binging-like you can't stop yourself

Purging by self-induced vomiting, laxatives, or diet pills

Broken blood vessels in the eyes, tooth decay (from vomiting)

Exercising excessively

 

      If you recognize any of these signs in yourself, know that there is help!   Make an appointment with your campus counseling center and talk with a professional about alternatives.   If you suspect your roommate or a friend has an eating disorder, encourage her to seek professional help. Discuss your concerns in a sensitive, supportive way. Keep your comments focused on her health and how it's affecting your relationship rather than on weight or appearance. Avoid assuming the role of "food police." This will only make her more secretive. If you feel her weight is dangerously low, report your concerns to your RA and the campus counseling center.      

 

      For additional help with eating disorders, contact the National Eating Disorders Association at www.edap.org . 

DateHookUp.com also offers helpful information on anorexia with additional links.

     For more information about campus mental health visit www.campusblues.com. 

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