Fostering Healthy Body Image

College can be a stressful time for students, and sometimes they use food as a coping mechanism. Sometimes, a different schedule or menu can affect weight.

It is not uncommon for students to gain or to lose weight. Determining if it is a problem requiring professional help can be tricky.

Warning signs of a more serious eating disorder:

Extreme weight loss or weight gain, necessitating new clothing to fit their new shape
Obsession with or rejection of food
Binge eating
Vomiting or purging after meals
Personality change

If you notice these warning signs, begin by asking, “Are you okay? You seem a little down (or stressed, or anxious, or different).” This might help open a dialogue about the issue.

Share your concern about changes in personality and mood, rather than appearance.
Suggest a doctor’s visit or counseling.

If you are more concerned, visit the Renfrew Center’s website (renfrew.org) for a therapist in your area who specializes in the treatment of eating disorders.

Cabrini’s Office of Counseling and Psychological Services can offer additional advice and resources.

Examine your own beliefs and behavior related to body image and weight and consider how others might interpret the messages they get from you.
Encourage healthy eating and exercise.
Talk about the variety of different body types and the fact that they can all be acceptable and healthy.
Discuss the danger of dieting, and that studies show people can actually gain more weight by restricting their calorie intake by too much.

DON’T:

Label foods as “good” or “bad”
Use food for rewards or punishments
Encourage dangerous dieting or over-exercising
Comment on weight or body types
Allow teasing or making fun of anyone based on physical characteristics including size

Cabrini offers free confidential counseling for all students.

To schedule an appointment, call 610.902.8561.

The Renfrew Center specializes in eating disorder treatment and education.

For more information, visit renfrew.org or call 1.800.RENFREW.