The Center for Hope of the Sierras (CHS), a local eating disorder treatment center, is collaborating with the University of Nevada, Reno Counseling Services and the Student Health Center to raise awareness for National Eating Disorder Awareness (NEDA) Week Feb. 21-27.
Various events will take place on campus throughout the week, including speakers, free health screenings, and more. Brian Cuban, the author of “Shattered Image: My Triumph Over Body Dysmorphic Disorder”, a personal account of his decades long struggle with eating disorders, alcoholism, drug addiction, and Body Dysmorphic Disorder will speak Feb. 24 from 7 – 8 p.m. at the Joe Crowley Student Union in Ballroom C.
“Males are much less likely to reach out for help, let alone become aware that they have an eating disorder, because there is a stigma that it is a woman’s disease,” said Katie Stout, CEO of CHS. “We hope to open up a conversation that both males and females can feel comfortable with and ultimately be open to receiving much needed help.”
Additionally, a panel will share their personal experiences concerning food restriction, dieting, exercise, and body image issues Feb. 23 from 6 – 7 p.m. in the Joe Crowley Student Union Theater. Each member of the panel will be available after the talk to answer questions and guide further discussion.
“College students are typically the group that we see eating disorders in the most due to a variety of factors that include social pressures, strong desires to succeed and significant life changes and stressors that can be difficult to cope with,” said Stout.
Anyone with questions about food, body image, or weight concerns can attend free screenings where experienced professionals will be available to provide advice and additional help if needed. Screenings will be held at the Knowledge Center on Feb. 23, 25, and 26 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
For details on CHS or eating disorder treatment information, visit the website.
