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Eating & Body Image Issues

Eating disorders are serious illnesses that are more likely to develop at two critical stages in a susceptible young person's life. Adolescence is one; college is the other. The transition from home life to college is often stressful as routines and levels of independence change. Loneliness, depression and sleep disorders are common. Peer pressure to look good is enormous. All of these are factors that may contribute to the development of an eating disorder—or to the exacerbation of a previously existing eating disorder.

With so much attention to the obesity epidemic, it's important to remember there is a difference between healthy eating and pathologic, potentially dangerous, disordered eating. Because this is a prevalent concern on college campuses today, you should recognize the symptoms of eating disorders and know what resources are available.

Eating Disorder Quiz

I lie about what I eat.  True  False
I feel in control of myself if I restrict the amount of calories, food and/or fat I eat.  True  False
I spend a lot of time worrying about food and weight.  True  False
I often feel anxious or guilty after I eat a food that is high in fat or calories.  True  False
I go on eating binges and don’t stop eating until I feel sick.  True  False
I would rather die than be fat.  True  False
I feel fat even though people tell me I’m thin.  True  False
I believe that being in control of my food shows others that I am in control of my life.  True  False
I have a secret stash of food.  True  False
If I eat something "bad," I compensate by trying to exercise the calories away.  True  False
I have taken laxatives or forced myself to vomit after eating.  True  False
I won’t admit it to anyone, but sometimes I think that my eating or exercising is not normal.  True  False
I avoid eating around other people.  True  False
I feel anxious when eating food prepared by others or in restaurants.  True  False

 

How did you do?

Total number of "true" answers:

1-3
You have some preoccupation with food and eating. Get more information about healthy eating and weight change. SHC Nutrition Services is a good place to start. Call (212) 443-1122 for more information.

4-6
There is reason for concern. We recommend you share your situation with a professional.  Call Counseling & Behavioral Health Services at (212) 998-4780 to speak with a counselor. For a medical and nutritional evaluation, contact SHC Nutrition Services at (212) 443-1122.

over 6
You are greatly jeopardizing your physical and/or psychological health. We strongly urge you to seek professional assistance. Call Counseling & Behavioral Health Services at (212) 998-4780 or Primary Care Services at (212) 443-1122.