Unveiling the Hidden Battle: Exploring Eating Disorders Among College Students.
College life is a transformative experience filled with academic challenges, newfound independence, and personal growth. However, beneath the surface, many college students face a lesser-known struggle – eating disorders.
In this blog post, we will explore the significant connection between eating disorders and college students, delving into compelling statistics that shed light on this critical issue.
The Prevalence of Eating Disorders Among College Students
Eating disorders are not uncommon among college campuses, affecting students from various backgrounds and academic pursuits. According to several recent studies, the statistics reveal a concerning reality:
- According to a survey by the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA), around 13.5% of college students have experienced an eating disorder by the time they graduate.
- This survey also found that female college students are more susceptible to eating disorders, with an estimated 10-20% of women experiencing an eating disorder during their college years (NEDA, 2013).
- Male college students are also affected, with research showing an increase in the prevalence of eating disorders among males, accounting for approximately 10% of cases (NEDA, 2013).
- 86.3% of respondents (primarily college-aged women) screened positive for an eating disorder. Only 3% of those who screened positive for an eating disorder in the NEDA survey were currently in treatment (NEDA, 2013).
- According to a study conducted by the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Michigan, 20% to 67% of college students experience subthreshold eating disorder symptoms.
The Prevalence of Eating Disorders Among College Athletes
- In a study of 204 female college athletes from 17 sports at 3 universities, 2% were classified as having an eating disorder and another 25.5% exhibited symptoms at a subclinical level (Greenleaf, 2009).
- The prevalence of eating disorders in college athletes is higher among dancers and the most elite college athletes, particularly those involved with sports that emphasize a lean physique or weight restriction (e.g., figure skating, wrestling, rowing), (National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse, 2003).
- Though most athletes with eating disorders are female, male athletes are also at risk—especially those competing in sports that tend to emphasize diet, appearance, size, and weight. In weight-class sports (wrestling, rowing, horseracing) and aesthetic sports (bodybuilding, gymnastics, swimming, diving) about 33% of male athletes are affected. In female athletes in weight class and aesthetic sports, disordered eating occurs at estimates of up to 62% (Bonci, 2009).
- One study found that 35% of female and 10% of male college athletes were at risk for anorexia nervosa and 58% of female and 38% of male college athletes were at risk for bulimia nervosa. (National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse, 2003).
Eating disorders represent a pressing issue on college campuses, profoundly affecting students’ physical and mental health, academic success, and overall well-being. The statistics shed light on the concerning reality of the prevalence of eating disorders among college students, emphasizing the need for proactive and comprehensive measures to address this hidden battle.
Introducing Prosperity's Virtual IOP for College Students
At Prosperity Eating Disorders and Wellness Center, we are committed to providing accessible and effective treatment for eating disorders to college students. Our Virtual IOP for College Students breaks down barriers, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to heal and thrive. With Telehealth accessibility, students can seek help and support from the comfort of their dorm rooms or apartments.
Our Virtual Adult IOP offers personalized care, matching all individuals with a therapist and dietitian best suited for their unique needs. We specialize in treating various eating disorders, including binge eating disorder, anorexia, bulimia, and OSFED, guaranteeing tailored support on the journey to recovery. We prioritize meal planning on campus, ensuring a balance between recovery and academics while fostering a recovery community in the midst of a diet culture. Additionally, we collaborate with Student Health departments to provide comprehensive care and manage health factors.
With Prosperity’s Virtual IOP for College Students, every student can receive the support and guidance they need to thrive during their college journey and beyond. Take the first step toward recovery and contact us today to learn more about this transformative program.
Get started with Prosperity Eating Disorders & Wellness Center today!
References:
- Greenleaf, C., Petrie, T., Carter, J., Reel, J. (2009). “Female Collegiate Athletes: Prevalence of Eating disorders and Disordered Eating behaviors.” Journal of American College Health, 57(5), 489–496.
- Eisenberg, D., Nicklett, E. J., Roeder, K., & Kirz, N. E. (2011). Eating disorder symptoms among college students: prevalence, persistence, correlates, and treatment-seeking. Journal of American College Health, 59(8), 700-707. doi: 10.1080/07448481.2010.546461. PMID: 21950250; PMCID: PMC3721327.
- National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA). (2013). Collegiate Survey Project. Retrieved from https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/sites/default/files/CollegeSurvey/CollegiateSurveyProject.pdf
- Bonci, L. (2009). Sport Nutrition for Coaches. Human Kinetics.
- Byrne, S., McLean, N., Trotter, M., & Mazanov, J. (2001). Prevalence of eating disorders in female athletes. Social Science & Medicine, 52(7), 1045-1051.
- Sundgot-Borgen, J., & Torstveit, M. K. (2004). Prevalence of eating disorders in elite athletes is higher than in the general population. Clinical Journal of Sport Medicine, 14(1), 25-32.
- The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse (CASA) at Columbia University. (2003). Food for Thought: Substance Abuse and Eating Disorders. The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse (CASA) Columbia University; New York
