Eating Disorders – Are You Aware?

Feb. 1, 2017

Food and body image thoughts can impact relationships, what you attempt to do, how happy you feel, and even how you take care of yourself.  Eating disorders are mental health conditions. They are at the far end of the continuum of food and body image thinking, that progresses from well-minded to concerned, to preoccupied, then obsessed, and finally disordered. 

 

It is a varied path, but the sooner you are aware of the direction you are heading and get support, the quicker you are on the road to recovery. Truly regaining control over your life will bring peace with your body and give you freedom to engage in your treasured relationships and goals.

 

At the National Eating Disorders Association website, search for “7 Signs That You or Someone You Care About May be Struggling with an Eating Disorder.” Also, under the “Learn” tab, you will find a wealth of information for those who are suffering, their friends, families, treatment providers, educators, and coaches. 

 

Closer to home, the UA has amazing mental health (520-621-3334), nutrition (520-621-6483), and medical (520-621-9202) resources at the Campus Health Service to help you with disordered eating issues and other mental and medical health problems.  These services are convenient and student-centered.  This is a great time of life to take charge and get help. 

Resources if you or someone you know is struggling.

  • C.E.D.A.R. - Campus Eating Disorder Awareness and Recovery Group
  • CAPS- Eating Disorder and Body Image Concerns
     

What else can you do to increase your awareness, understanding, and prevention of eating disorders?

  • Check out the Body Positive Arizona website for programs and events on campus:
    • Body Positive Round Table Discussions
    • Body Positive Peer-led Workshops for your club, Res Hall, sorority, or for a group of friends.
    • Contact  lmacdonald@email.arizona.edu for upcoming events.