Counting calories, exercising excessively, spending hours in front of the mirror...

Most people associate eating disorders with excessive dieting, over exercising, and counting calories. But did you know that eating out of control can also be a sign of a serious problem? Most of us overeat from time to time. Who can resist the all you can eat ice-cream bar at the dining hall? However, if eating large amounts food has become a regular habit, if you are unable to control what or how much you eat, or you feel extremely guilty after indulging, you may be suffering from an eating disorder.

Eating disorders are fairly common on college campuses. In fact, 95 percent of those who have an eating disorder are between the ages of 12 and 25. During college, maintaining a healthy weight and a positive body image can be challenging, especially when academic pressures blend with social expectations. Stress can often translate into skipping meals, compulsive exercising or eating out of control. In honor of National Eating Disorders Awareness Week, The University of Findlay is offering an anonymous online mental health questionnaire, available free to all students. If you are concerned about your eating habits, weight or body image - or those of a friend - just click on this link and choose the eating disorders questionnaire: http://www.mentalhealthscreening.org/screening/login.asp?keyword=oilers 
 
The questionnaire is confidential and provides immediate feedback as well as information on how to get help if needed. Questionnaires are also available for alcohol and depression. February is the month of love and friendship, and UF Counseling Services staff is here to listen and help.

See our "Upcoming Events" page for dates and times of events as part of "Be Comfortable In Your Genes" 2008.

Contact cousenlingservices@findlay.edu with any questions.