In conclusion…
Eating disorders are a serious and potentially life-threatening illness. Though the precise causes remain unknown, we do know that eating disorders disproportionately affect young people, meaning university students may be more likely to be affected than the general population. Self-reported statistics suggest at least 1.8% of undergraduate UK university students have experienced an eating disorder.
There are a number of reasons that going to university can trigger or encourage an eating disorder, from leaving home, exam pressure and independence around food for the first time. While universities are aware of the issue, it can be viewed at some institutes as too demanding to tackle.
There are several steps universities can take to better address the issue of eating disorders. These can vary from broad awareness raising steps, such as understanding the severity of eating disorders and making an effort to destigmatise the illness, to practical steps such as providing enough specialist staff, reducing waiting times and increasing their wellbeing budget.
Available help:
- Both Beat and ABC offer training.
- Beat’s Studentline (0808 801 0811) is open 365 days a year, 12pm – 8pm on weekdays and 4pm – 8pm on weekends and bank holidays.
- They also run weekly online support group specifically for students.
- Beat’s main Helpline is also open 365 days a year and is open to anyone – so university staff could call it if they are concerned about a student.
- ABC’s Helpline is open from 9:30-5.30pm Monday-Friday.
- ABC also offer an online platform called Befriending, a free weekly drop-in in central Bath and a range of books and guides.
- Rehab4addiction have an questionnaire that may be useful for students who think they may be sufferingfrom an eating disorder, or for staff with concerns about a student.
Explore GSL News’s other content and resources on student wellbeing here.
