University of Nebraska–Lincoln

Counseling and Psychological Services

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Eating Disorders

History

In the United States, conservative estimates indicate that, after puberty, 5-10 percent of girls and women (that translates to 5-10 million girls and women) and one million boys and men are struggling with eating disorders including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder to borderline conditions (Journal of American Dietetic Association, 2001; Crowther et al 1997; Fairburn et al, 1993 Gordon, 1990 Hock, 1995; Shisslak et al., 1995). Because of secretiveness and shame associated with eating disorders, many cases are probably not reported. In addition, many individuals struggle with body dissatisfaction and sub-clinical eating disorder attitudes and behaviors. For example, 80 percent of American women are dissatisfied with their appearance (Simolak, 1996).

How We Can Help

Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) seeks to foster the emotional and physical well-being of students. In keeping with this ideal, CAPS staff realizes the need for prevention, support and education around the topics of weight, body image, disordered eating, food preoccupation, exercise obsession and eating disorders.

An evaluation by the multidisciplinary team is one of the first steps in assisting the student in gaining a healthier perspective. This team consists of psychologists, counselors, a registered dietitian, psychiatrist, physician, nurse and exercise specialist. In seeking assistance, a student may utilize the services of one or all members of the team.

Services offered by the team include:

  • Individual counseling sessions to address the emotional and psychological apects of an eating disorder.
  • Nutritional counseling to provide education and assistance in meeting the nutritional needs of an individual.
  • Medical evaluation and treatment in order to assist in managing any physical concerns that may be present.
  • Fitness evaluation and exercise program to assess the student's current fitness level and establish a healthy routine of exercise.
  • Consultation with a psychiatrist to determine the presence of other conditions, such as depression, and to make medication recommendations, if indicated.
  • Support groups are also offered. Meetings focus on topics relevant to the issues of weight, body image disordered eating, food preoccupation, exercise obsession, and eating disorders.

Types of Eating Disorders

Anorexia Nervosa is a complex disorder characterized by low body weight, intense fear of gaining weight and distorted body image. Although "anorexia" means "lack of appetite", the person with anorexia is often obsessed with food. Some people with anorexia also have bingeing and purging symptoms.

Bulimia Nervosa is characterized by episodes of food binges followed by purging behavior such as vomiting, excessive exercising, fasting, diuretic and laxative abuse. People with bulimia also fear becoming fat and frequently have a distorted body image.

Binge Eating Disorder is similar to bulimia except that the person does not engage in compensatory weight control strategies.

Many people who do not have fully developed eating disorders experience disordered eating. This may be due to inadequate nutritional information or may be related to using food as a means of coping with emotional problems.

Warning Signs of an Eating Disorder

  • Intense preoccupation with body size, weight and shape.
  • Extreme fluctuations in weight.
  • Secretive eating and/or bingeing/purging.
  • Excessive exercising.
  • Use of laxatives, diet pills, or diuretics.

Internet Resources for Eating Disorders

Campus Resources