Eating Disorders Awareness/Screening
Event Set for March 2 and 3 at Tri-County
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 3/1/05
CONTACT: DANA LEIGHTON, 646-1387
(By Lisa Garrett)
PENDLETON -- Find out how body image and eating can be connected
at an eating disorders awareness and screening event scheduled for
Wednesday and Thursday at Tri-County Technical College.
Students in the College's Abnormal Psychology course, in cooperation
with the Counseling Center, are sponsoring the event from 10 a.m. -
2 p.m. on Wednesday, March 2, and from 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. on Thursday,
March 3, in the Student Center lounge. Information, prizes and an optional
free assessment of your risk for eating disorders will be available.
As part of the program, participants will hear an educational presentation,
complete a written self-assessment and have the opportunity to talk
privately with a health professional about their screening results.
Adjusting to college life can be difficult for many, and the desire
to fit in can make students susceptible to eating disorders, like anorexia,
bulimia and compulsive overeating, said Dana Leighton, psychology instructor
at Tri-County. Ninety-five percent of people with eating disorders
are between the ages of 12 and 25, and the majority of those with eating
disorders don't seek treatment, he added.
"The goal of the screening is to reduce the stigma attached to
eating disorders and to let students know that help is available," said
Leighton.
Counselors emphasize that even those who do not have a diagnosable
eating disorder can benefit from this program. Food concerns, body
dissatisfaction and low self esteem can keep a student from achieving
at school or sports and hinders social activities. This program offers
education and screening to help students stop unhealthy eating habits
before they evolve into eating disorders.
The Office of Student Affairs, Student Government Association, Spanish
Club, and Student Democrats is sponsoring this event. This education
and screening program is being held as part of National Eating Disorders
Awareness Week (February 28 through March 5, 2005).
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