We learn early on that our value is based on how we look. Interestingly enough, the drive to be thin has reigned powerful in our society. Strange, isn’t it, that as we try to become thinner and thinner, America has become fatter and fatter? FAT. We act like it’s a four letter word. I believe if the definition of beauty gets any thinner, we all might disappear!

The week of Feb. 27 through March 2, individuals around the globe and on different campuses get together to share information, educate and increase awareness about eating disorders and body image. UTM is glad to take part in this event this year with programs and a confidential, anonymous eating disorder screening.

What are the most recognized eating disorders?

Anorexics have a fear of gaining weight and limit their food. They are underweight, overly fearful of becoming fat and believe they are fat even when very thin. Females with anorexia sometimes miss their periods.

Binge eaters often eat large amounts and feel out of control when doing so. They’ll eat until they are uncomfortably full, eat alone, and feel embarrassed and disgusted and guilty after binging. They do not throw up, over exercise or purge themselves.

Bulimics eat a lot of food in a short time and then try to prevent weight gain by purging (throwing up, taking laxatives or water pills and exercising excessively).

Think college women are too smart and educated to have eating disorders? Wrong- studies show 5 to 20 percent of college women have eating disorders. On a campus the size of UTM, that would be up to 1200 women. Guys, I know you are rolling your eyes and saying “what do I care?” Think it’s just something for women to worry about? At least 1 to 7 percent of college men have reported eating disorders as well, only they show it in different ways - like compulsive exercising, over-training, fixating on muscular physique or fastidious eating.

Do you feel weird, uncomfortable when you read this? Wonder if I’m talking about you? Come to the Eating Disorders Screening and find out if you are at risk. We can provide you with plenty of information on how you can help someone with an eating disorder, stop contributing to someone else’s eating disorder, help yourself, or just get some tips on gaining a positive body image. At the very least, you can get a free Love Your Body bracelet!

The screenings are confidential (meaning you don’t even have to give us your name). A counselor from the Counseling Center will interpret your results and provide you with some suggestions as to your options. Students who complete the screening can use the results they get from it to determine whether they want to seek help from the Counseling Center.

Other Events

On Feb. 27, 28 and March 1 and 2, at 8:00 p.m. in the UC, (check with us for room numbers) a movie dealing with some aspect of disordered eating will be shown, followed by a discussion. Come out and share your thoughts — all opinions are welcome.

Did I mention a free “Love Your Body” bracelet? Stop by the Counseling Center during the week of Feb. 27 - March 2 and pick up some eating disorder/body image information and a free “Love Your Body bracelet” to show that you don’t weigh your self esteem. (Quantities limited.)

Dr. Michelle Santiago is with the UTM Counseling and Career Services Center. She can be reached by e-mail at msantiago@utm.edu or campus ext. 7720.