UA Awareness Events Focus on Eating Disorders

By Tyler J. McDowell-Blanken, University Communications | February 27, 2012

The UA is participating in National Eating Disorders Awareness Week Feb. 28-29.

Formed in 2001, the National Eating Disorders Association supports individuals and families affected by eating disorders and serves as a resource for prevention.
Formed in 2001, the National Eating Disorders Association supports individuals and families affected by eating disorders and serves as a resource for prevention.

In conjunction with National Eating Disorders Awareness Week, the University of Arizona is hosting events addressing the multi-faceted issue of body image.

The UA's "Love Your Body Day," which will be held Feb. 28-29, was coordinated by UA Campus Health Service and the Women's Resource Center with sponsorships from off-campus organizations including the Rosewood Centers for Eating Disorders and Remuda Ranch. 

On Feb. 28, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., students are encouraged to take the healthy body image survey, which will be administered nationally.

The survey will provide individuals with information regarding their own body image. It will be available at the UA Bookstore, the Highland Commons area, the Campus Recreation Center and on the UA Mall. Information and other resources will be available. Also, counselors and a nutritionist will be on site.

On Feb. 29 at 6 p.m., "America the Beautiful 2 – The Thin Commandments" will be screened at the UA's Gallagher Theater, located in the Student Union Memorial Center.

After the showing, film collaborator and eating disorder therapist Carolyn Costin will be available for a question-and-answer session.

Costin was named the recipient of the National Eating Disorders Association's Award for Advocacy 2008 and in 2011. She also received the Spirit Recognition Award from Sierra Tucson.