KISSIMMEE, Fla. - Eating disorders impact up to 20% of college students. Many more students struggle with feeling good about their appearance and bodies.
Students packed the auditorium at the Osceola Campus on October 8 to learn and educate themselves on an issue that affects many around the world.
Peer educator Mia Henry spoke to students about the dangers of image self-consciousness that lead to problems such as eating disorders and low esteem.
The event focused on many of the components of eating disorders and spent quite a time discussing body image issues.
The role of the media in the development of body image issues was examined and the costs of pursuing our culture's beauty ideal were also explored.
"Young people are influenced very much by what they see on television," said Henry. "We live in a culture now where the acceptable image is downsized to a specific way of looking and being."
Aside from the cultural influence on body image, eating disorders may arise as a result of stress and overload from school.
Henry said, "It can seem difficult to have a balanced life while in college."
Peer educators focus on promoting a positive campus community that reflects the attitudes, behaviors, and values of a healthy lifestyle.
Valencia student Ryan Rodriguez was personally impacted by this presentation as his older sister passed away as a result of an eating disorder. "I think it is important for people to ask for help if they have a problem they cannot control."
