Body Image and Eating Disorders

Support for SUNY Oneonta Students
Amira The Healing Space | MA Therapy, LLC

Body image refers to the way a person thinks and feels about their physical appearance. Sometimes the way someone sees their body in their mind does not match how others actually see them. When a person develops a negative or distorted view of their body, it can significantly affect their mental health, self-esteem, and relationship with food.

Body image concerns affect people of all genders, cultures, and backgrounds. Social pressures, media influences, athletic expectations, and stress during college can all contribute to how students think about their bodies.

According to the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD), approximately 30 million Americans will experience an eating disorder at some point in their lives. Eating disorders also have one of the highest mortality rates of any mental health condition, which is why early support and treatment are extremely important.

Common Eating Disorders

Eating disorders are complex medical and psychological conditions that affect a person’s relationship with food, weight, and body image.

Some of the most recognized eating disorders include:

Anorexia Nervosa
People severely restrict food intake and may have an intense fear of gaining weight. Individuals often see themselves as overweight even when they are underweight.

Bulimia Nervosa
This disorder involves cycles of eating large amounts of food followed by behaviors intended to prevent weight gain, such as vomiting, excessive exercise, or misuse of laxatives.

Binge Eating Disorder (BED)
Individuals regularly eat large quantities of food in a short period of time and often feel a loss of control during these episodes.

Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)
This disorder involves avoiding or restricting certain foods, which can lead to significant nutritional deficiencies or health concerns.

Diabulimia
A dangerous condition in which individuals with Type 1 diabetes intentionally reduce or skip insulin doses in order to lose weight.

Signs Someone May Be Struggling

Eating disorders can sometimes be difficult to recognize. Signs may include:

• extreme concern about weight, calories, or body shape
• skipping meals or severely restricting food
• frequent dieting or fasting
• eating large amounts of food followed by guilt or shame
• withdrawal from social situations involving food
• dizziness, fatigue, or noticeable weight changes
• excessive exercise driven by weight concerns

If these behaviors begin affecting your health, mood, or daily functioning, it is important to seek support.

Treatment and Support

Eating disorders often require comprehensive care because they affect both physical and mental health. Treatment may involve a team of professionals such as:

• therapist or counselor
• psychiatrist
• primary care physician
• registered dietitian or nutritionist

Therapy can help individuals understand the emotional and psychological factors behind eating disorders while building healthier coping strategies and relationships with food and body image.

In more serious situations where health is at risk, intensive outpatient programs, residential care, or hospitalization may be recommended to ensure safety and recovery.

Counseling Support for SUNY Oneonta Students

Students experiencing body image concerns or eating-related difficulties can speak with a counselor in a supportive and confidential environment.

SUNY Oneonta students may schedule free virtual counseling sessions through Amira The Healing Space.

Schedule here:
https://amirathehealingspace.as.me

Early support can make a meaningful difference in recovery and long-term well-being.

National Eating Disorder Resources

If you or someone you know may be struggling, these organizations provide trusted information and support.

National Alliance for Eating Disorders
https://www.allianceforeatingdisorders.com

ANAD (National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders)
Helpline: 888-375-7767
https://anad.org

National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA)
https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org

New York State Eating Disorder Resources

The Renfrew Center (New York locations)
Specialized treatment programs for eating disorders
https://renfrewcenter.com

Monte Nido & Affiliates
Residential and outpatient eating disorder treatment programs
https://www.montenido.com

Columbia Center for Eating Disorders
New York-based clinical treatment and research program
https://www.columbiapsychiatry.org

You Are Not Alone

Body image struggles and eating disorders can feel isolating, but support is available. Recovery is possible, and many people benefit from early conversations with a trusted professional.

If you are concerned about your relationship with food, exercise, or body image, reaching out for help is a strong and important step.