As many may have noticed by the abundance of eating- and body-themed activities on campus, last week was National Eating Disorders Awareness Week. In order to spread the word, many students banded together to spread awareness about this dangerous and highly prevalent set of disorders that affects men and women across the globe. Some of you may have participated in an eating habits questionnaire that was circulated early in the week, and for that we thank you! It was amazing to hear real feedback not from a national survey, but from one so much closer to home.
One of the most important things this survey taught us was that there is an overwhelming drive for thinness at Notre Dame, with well over half of the respondents answering that they engage in dieting or wish they were thinner. Over 70 percent also expressed that they felt a pressure to be thin on campus. However, there was one result that we felt was extremely positive and necessary to report: Nearly 75 percent of Notre Dame students stated that they were happy with their bodies and the way they look! It's important that we as a community embrace the many body types, cultures and appearances that are represented on this campus and recognize the beauty in them all.
As eating disorders become more prevalent in American culture, especially in a collegiate setting, we challenge you to spread the word and be aware of the dangers. Further, love your body for all of the amazing things it can do for you! From dancing an Irish jig on those rickety benches freshman year to walking across the stage on graduation day, it is important to care for our bodies so they can continue to care for us. So, if you have concerns about your own (or a friend's) health, please visit www.nationaleatingdisorders.org to learn more about these issues.
Sheridan Jost
senior
off campus
Dagny Nagengost
junior
Lewis Hall
Feb. 29
