Editor’s note: the following guest column was submitted by UNI Student Wellness Services.

According to the National Eating Disorder Association, “In the United States, 20 million women and 10 million men suffer from a clinically significant eating disorder at some time in their life, including Anorexia Nervosa (AN), Bulimia Nervosa (BN), Binge Eating Disorder (BED) or an Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorder (OSFED).”

These disorders are not how one chooses to live; these are mental illnesses that are easily overlooked. 

So, what can you do to help those who are living with an eating disorder? You can help by increasing awareness and showing your support!

Here, at the University of Northern Iowa, with the help of the BIEDA (Body Image Eating Disorder Awareness) student organization, Alpha Sigma Tau and Student Wellness Services, we have a fun and informational week planned with many different events.

These events will take place during National Eating Disorder Awareness Week, which is Feb. 26 through March 4. 

Schedule of Events

Monday, 2/26:

Information Table — Maucker Union, all day

Lunch and Learn: Intuitive Eating — Maucker Union, Presidential Room, 12 p.m.

Tuesday, 2/27:

Speaker: Stop Bullying Your Body: Learn how body image gets its start and how to quiet the bully inside your head — Maucker Union Ballroom, 7 p.m.

Jessica, MS, RD/LD, is an internationally known dietitian and eating disorder expert. Having recovered from her own eating disorder, Jessica’s passion is promoting a positive relationship with food and eating as key components of a healthy and happy life.

Wednesday, 2/28:

Labyrinth Walking Meditation, WRC 185, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Love Your Body Zumba, Maucker Union, University Room, 4 to 5 p.m.

Thursday, 2/29:

Gene Project/Body Image and Self-Acceptance Display, Maucker Union, all day

Movie & Discussion Night: “To the Bone,” Maucker Union Oak Room, 7 p.m.

Friday, 2/30:

Gene Project/Body Image and Self-Acceptance Display, Maucker Union, all day 

Stop by and check them out! For more information, contact Joan Thompson at [email protected] or visit our website: studentwellness.uni.edu.

— Brooke Hottle, Graduate Assistant, Student Wellness Services