Eating Disorders Turn What You're Eating into What's Eating You--But Help is Available

Three-quarters of the college students who volunteered for the first nationwide screening for eating disorders showed symptoms of the illnesses, according to a Harvard University study. Is a similar proportion of students affected at Mount Holyoke? Probably not, says Davina Miller, director of counseling services.

Although the Harvard study correctly identifies eating disorders as a serious national problem, Miller notes it was not conducted using a scientific, random sample. In essence, the Harvard study asked people who thought they might have eating disorders to come for evaluation, which boosted the percentage. Miller says other estimates indicate that "1-5 percent have serious anorexia, 5-15 percent have purged food [through vomiting or using laxatives], and up to 30 percent of female college students have had episodes of disturbed eating during their college years."

You are what you eat--The health center sponsors programs specifically addressing eating disorders as well as general programs like this recent workshop. Nutritionist Arlene Thompson (second from left) discusses ways food can improve your mood, academic and athletic performance, and general well-being with (L to R) Michelle Cunningham '99, Anna Abraham '97, and Lesley White.

At MHC, about 6 percent of students seen by counselors last year had eating disorders, Miller says. Although not approaching the 75 percent found in the Harvard study, eating disorders have been a continuing problem on campus at least since the early 1980s, when Miller began running counseling groups on the topic. "Eating disorders are never just about weight; they reflect our feelings about ourselves," she says. "Women are deeply ambivalent about the size of our bodies and how much space we take up in the world. This is the contemporary expression of women's pain."

"If issues about food, eating, and weight are taking up too much of your time and energy, think about coming to the health center," Miller advises. "The disorders can be treated, and issues about food can shift from being central to a more peripheral place in your life." Many forms of help are available. The student group HOPE (Helping Overcome Problematic Eating) is planning workshops and a support group for next semester. Health education coordinator Karen Jacobus currently offers workshops in residence halls, and has information available on eating disorders and other health topics. Students may also see a nutritionist and/or health center counselors with food-related concerns.