In a recent study done by a Harvard research team, they discovered that the majority of eating disorders in college students mostly of the female gender go unnoticed.
How an eating disorder can go unnoticed actually has a simple answer many college students feel the pressure of fitting in especially those just entering college. One participant in the study was quoted as saying “If you are not thin and beautiful no one notices you.” Trying to fit in can cause a great deal of stress. This stress for a young woman who feels she is over weight may be the trigger that causes her to develop an eating disorder in this case anorexia.
Other participants found themselves in a binge and purge cycle eating disorder. They become lonely and often depressed so they would eat a half a gallon of ice cream chased down by a few bags of chips and cookies.
What the researchers discovered is that these eating disorders can easily go unnoticed because the participants did not repeat this behavior on a regular basis it was “used” on an as need basis.
When you have a college campus with three thousand students on it unless someone seeks help then it can be almost be impossible to determine who has or is at risk for an eating disorder.
Especially when the behavior is not consistent. A binge/purge cycle that lasts for two weeks and does not return is not actually enough to classify a person as having an eating disorder. They can certainly be considered at a high risk for developing one in the future.
Click on a state below to find eating disorder treatment options that could be right for you.
For individuals, friends and families who are looking to connect during life's challenging times. Share personal experiences, evaluate information and get support during times of need, illness, treatment or recovery.
The information provided on EatingDisordersOnline.com is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between a patient/site visitor and his/her health professional. This information is solely for informational and educational purposes and we encourage all visitors to see a licensed physician if they believe that they have an eating disorder. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine, and this information does not replace the advice of your physician or other health care provider. Neither the owners or employees of EatingDisordersOnline.com nor the author(s) of site content take responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, action or application of medication which results from reading this site. Always speak with your primary health care provider before engaging in any form of self treatment. Please see our Legal Statement for further information.
.tiny.jpg "tiny")
.tiny.jpg "tiny")
Eating Disorder Support Groups at SupportGroups.com provides a network for those facing life's challenges. Click on the following links to get the support you need in a confidential, caring environment.
If you or a loved one is suffering from an eating disorder and need help entering into recovery then we are here to offer help in any way we can. We have over 2,000 Treatment Facilities and Treatment Professionals listed on our Directory. You can search by Zip Code, City or State. Click here to search for a Treatment Facility that is right for you.
