Contributed on behalf of Cathy J. Saloff-Coste, MS, RDN, CEDRD, IC Nutritionist Hammond Health Center
It’s back again: February 24-March 1 is National Eating Disorders Awareness Week (NEDAW), and this year is building on last year’s message of inclusivity in the eating disorder community. By looking back and sharing the struggles and successes of individuals’ efforts toward recovery, we can continue the conversation and give courage to others to continue their efforts toward health and self-acceptance.
Eating disorders can affect anyone. No one is immune, regardless of age, socioeconomic status, race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, body shape or weight. Teens and young adults are particularly vulnerable to developing eating disorders, and recent research suggests that transgender people may also be at increased risk. 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 psychiatric illness. The causes have not been completely elucidated, but seem to be related to some combination 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.
Everyone’s path to developing an eating disorder is unique. It often begins 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 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 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 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 limited services, in an individualized and confidential setting, and can facilitate referrals to community clinicians. For concerns, call Hammond Health Center at 607-274-3177; CAPS at 607-274-3136; or the IC nutritionist Cathy J. Saloff-Coste, MS, RDN, CDN, CEDRD, at 607-277-2053.
Check back in on Wednesday and Friday for more information on eating disorders and resources for getting help.