Special Topic Resource Pages

Eating Patterns and Body Image

INDIVIDUAL MEETING WITH A COUNSELOR
Your first step might be a confidential conversation with a Counseling Center counselor, who can work with you to explore the role of food in your emotional life and your feelings about your body, and help you locate appropriate sources of support or treatment as needed.

SELF-HELP RESOURCES
Our Self-Help Web site has information on eating disorders, as well as related topics such as depression and anxiety. The site includes an online library of web links, informal self-assessment quizzes; and access to several online "advice" sites. In addition, there are pamphlets and handouts on these topics available in the Self-Help Library located in the reception area of the Counseling Center, MGC-214.

NEW! Do you wonder if you have a problem with alchol use, depression/suicidality, bipolar disorder,
eating disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or generalized anxiety disorder?

WORKSHOPS AND SUPPORT GROUPS
The Counseling Center offers both single-session "Be Your Best" workshops and ongoing support groups every semester, and these usually include sessions of interest to students concerned about their eating or their body image. There are also several support groups in the DC area sponsored by private health care providers or national "twelve-step" programs such as Overeaters Anonymous (OA).

LOCAL ASSESSMENT AND TREATMENT RESOURCES
Several excellent services are available in the nearby community for students who require assessment or treatment for eating disorders or body-image concerns. In most instances, insurance helps cover the cost of private care. A Counseling Center counselor can help you connect with a private psychotherapist or treatment facility in the area that is maximally affordable, appropriate, and accessible for you. Call x3500 to make an appointment with a counselor;
[Note: If you are insured by the AU Student Health Insurance Plan, and plan to use your insurance benefits for private treatment, you need to get a referral from the Counseling Center before your first appointment.]

CONCERNED ABOUT SOMEONE ELSE'S EATING PATTERNS?
If you are concerned about someone else's eating patterns, and would like to help them get help, check out the Worried About Someone? page, or call to arrange a confidential consultation with a Counseling Center counselor.