UTSA recognizes Eating Disorder Awareness Week, shares wellbeing programs

Advancing UTSA’s commitment to promoting the well-being of students, faculty and staff and in observance of Eating Disorder Awareness Week, UTSA reminds Roadrunners that the university has many resources for those struggling with eating disorders and disordered eating. Eating Disorder Awareness Week (EDAW), February 27 to March 5, is an annual campaign that educates the public about the realities of eating disorders to reduce stigma and provide support and visibility to those affected by eating disorders. This year, EDAW celebrates Strength through Experience and Knowledge and recognizes It’s Time For a Change by centering on lived experiences and eating disorder education.

Eating disorders are serious medical illnesses characterized by severe disturbance to eating behaviors. They affect every gender, class, ethnicity, body weight, disability/ability, and sexual orientation. Over 29 million Americans will deal with an eating disorder at some point in their lives. They are as, or more prevalent than breast cancer, HIV, and schizophrenia. Approximately 10% of people with eating disorders are cisgender males. People of all body types struggle with eating disorders; you cannot tell if someone has an eating disorder just by looking at them.

Mistakenly perceived as a choice or trend, eating disorders are serious illnesses influenced by several genetic and environmental factors. They often involve severe medical complications and have the second highest mortality rate of all mental health disorders; however, recovery is possible with treatment and recovery services.