Health Center: Are you worried that a friend might have an eating disorder? Or that you might have one?

Eating disorders are a serious condition that can affect mental, emotional and psychological health. They are secretive in nature, which means those who struggle with them usually do so in private.

If you or a friend has an eating disorder, there are resources available for you on campus.

Common signs of an eating disorder include:

• Changes in eating behavior, such as eating alone or eating very restrictively
• Overall social isolation, avoiding usual activities
• Prioritizing exercise over social activities
• Rigidity with food choices, such as avoiding foods that used to be favorites or avoiding entire food groups
• Changes in mood or personality
• Going to the bathroom right after meals
• Strong body image dissatisfaction, often in contrast to actual body weight or size (i.e. a normal weight person who constantly is trying to lose weight)

If you decide to approach a friend whom you are concerned about, do it with care and concern. Express your concern about what you’ve noticed without being accusing. Offer to listen, and if the friend wants help, refer her/him to the University Health Center. If the person does not want help, she/he may not be ready to get better, but you can at least plant a seed for the future.

The University Health Center has counselors, medical providers and a dietitian who can help with recovery from an eating disorder. Call 943-7134 to schedule an appointment.