Studies have found that about 60 percent of female college students have disordered eating habits, which means they use food to compensate for low self-esteem, stress, or sadness. In response to these statistics, the University of Virginia has launched an eating disorders program on campus.

"The program's education coordinator, Amy Chestnutt, is an alumna whose part-time job focuses on planning events and activities that emphasize eating disorder prevention & One of the biggest programs they present, 'Celebrate Every Body Week,' took place Feb. 22 through 26&' [Source: The News Leader (VA)]

The University of Virginia is believed to be one of the only U.S. colleges to have an eating disorder counselor, making its program a model for other Universities. The programs primary goal is to get people talking about eating disorders, seeking help if they need it, and encouraging students to challenge the "ideal" body image portrayed in the media.

Labels: awareness, colleges

Posted By: Aspen/CRC