CSUN Plans Aid for Eating Disorders

The second Eating Disorders Awareness and Prevention Week at Cal State Northridge, coinciding with a nationwide observance, will take place next Monday through Friday at the university.

About 5 million Americans--and more than 5% of college students--suffer from such disorders as bulimia and anorexia, according to the National Institutes of Health. The CSUN event, sponsored by the campus group Joint Advocates on Disordered Eating, aims to educate the public about eating disorders and how to recognize the signs and symptoms of unhealthy attitudes toward body image.

College students are particularly vulnerable to various disorders, said Director Ellen Mayer of JADE.

“People get both excited and scared about being alone, and that shows up in attitudes toward food,” Mayer said. “A bagel or brownie doesn’t reject you, whereas a friend might.

“At a university, you’ve got sorority sisters who want everybody to be molded. You’ve got athletes getting pressure from teammates and coaches.”

Presentations will include videos, guest lecturers and CSUN students relating their own experiences. Information about support for those struggling with self-image issues will be available, as will referrals for treatment.

Also planned is a giant board in the Student Union where people can attach public letters of concern to loved ones with eating disorders.

The week will end on “Fearless Friday,” which Mayer described as a chance to “let go of your fear of fat--give up on dieting and talking about food.”

All events are free and open to the public.

For information and a schedule, call (818) 677-2366.