NIU to promote eating disorder awareness with week-long events

Did you know, according to the National Eating Disorders Association, nearly 30 million people in the United States will be impacted by an eating disorder during their lifetime?

Dedicated to bringing attention to the issues associated with eating disorders, NIU will join the conversation during National Eating Disorder Awareness Week from Monday, Feb. 22 to Sat. 28.

“Eating disorders are often overlooked or misdiagnosed,” said Amy Ozier, an associate professor, and eating disorders and obesity certificate facilitator in the College of Health and Human Sciences. “We hope to help those who might have an eating disorder or disordered eating, as well as empower those who know someone with an eating disorder get help.”

The theme of National Eating Disorder Awareness Week at NIU is “I Had No Idea.” Help promote NIU’s message by participating in the following events, and be sure to wear purple in support for those recovering from eating disorder:

Monday, Feb. 23:

• Information table: Stop by the Holmes Student Center between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. to ask questions, receive information about eating disorders and eating disorder treatment, and learn how to help a friend with eating disorder.
• Body Positive Meditation: Participate in guided meditation to help bring peace to your body and to your soul from 12 to 1 p.m. in the Campus Life Building.
• The Joy of Eating: Food is more than just fuel for our bodies; it can satisfy hunger while providing pleasurable flavors to satisfy taste buds. Swing by Wirtz 306 from 6 to 7 p.m. for hands-on cooking activities and prizes.

Tuesday, Feb. 24:

• Yoga for Every Body: The Campus Recreation Center will host a free yoga class from 8 to 9 p.m. in Studio Room 1. No previous experience is needed, and men and women of all fitness levels are welcome. Yoga mats will be provided. Space is limited to the first 25 participants.

Wednesday, Feb. 25:

• I Had No Idea: Panel Discussion: Join the discussion about what it means to have an eating disorder and what it takes to recover. From 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the Chandelier Room of the Holmes Student Center, the event provides an opportunity to learn from individuals who have struggled with eating disorder and have worked toward recovery.

Thursday, Feb. 26:

• Size Bias and Decoupage: From 5 to 7 p.m. in Room 100 of the Art Building, participate in an interactive discussion and exploration about body size and shape. Then, partake in a decoupage activity, which is one style of art used to treat individuals with eating disorders. Come let your creativity out with some art therapy.

According to the National Eating Disorders Association, eating disorders are serious emotional and physical problems that may have life-threatening consequences for both females and males. Disorders such as anorexia, bulimia and binge eating disorder may result in extreme emotions, attitudes and behaviors regarding weight and food.

For more information, contact the Counseling & Student Development Center at (815) 653-1206.

NIU’s National Eating Disorders Awareness Week events are sponsored by: Counseling & Student Development Center; Health Enhancement; The Women’s Resource Center; Campus Recreation; and The School of Family Consumer & Nutrition Sciences.