UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Penn State’s Health Promotion and Wellness (HPW) and Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), both units in the division of Student Affairs, will be hosting events the week of Feb. 24 to 28, to observe National Eating Disorder Awareness Week. HPW and CAPS are partnering to help raise awareness surrounding eating disorders by hosting daily events that provide information about the link between mental health and eating disorders, body image, and how to support yourself and others. In addition, HealthWorks, one of the University’s peer educator groups, will be running the daily information tables in the HUB-Robeson Center to answer questions.
"Eating disorders and body image are common concerns among college-aged individuals.” said Alexis Patkochis, a HealthWorks peer educator. “We developed a week of events to share helpful resources and promote positive body image as well as create safe spaces for conversations about eating disorders."
By attending these events, students will learn more about eating disorders, misconceptions and how to assist peers in promoting body positivity. Those who are not able to attend the in-person HUB events, may attend a Q&A about body image, weight stigma and health being held via Zoom on Feb. 25.
Stop by any of the events for National Eating Disorder Awareness Week.
- Monday, Feb. 24 — 11 a.m.–3 p.m., HUB Main Lounge — Learn about on-campus and national resources, body image and ways to practice body acceptance.
- Tuesday, Feb. 25, 11 a.m.–3 p.m., HUB Table 7 — Play a trivia game with prizes, designed to learn the facts and challenge misconceptions about eating disorders, as well as discover ways to support a friend in need.
- Tuesday, Feb. 25, Noon–1 p.m. — Special Event: "CAPS Health at Every Size: Real Talk" (via PSU Zoom ID: 96960734987); Join CAPS for an open Q&A about body image, weight stigma and more.
- Wednesday, Feb. 26, 11 a.m.–3 p.m., Galbraith Lounge — Get creative! Design a card and write a thank-you letter to your body for all the incredible things it does for you. Learn about various resources related to body image and eating disorders.
- Thursday, Feb. 27, 11 a.m.–3 p.m., HUB Table 8 — Experience mindful eating and learn about the mind-body connection.
- Friday, Feb. 28, Noon–3 p.m., HUB Table 5 — Test your knowledge, debunk myths and win prizes at this trivia table. Learn about resources and how to support a friend with an eating disorder.
For more information about eating disorders, including resources and support available at Penn State, visit Penn State Healthy Eating and Living Support (HEALS) HEALS is a resource program for students to promote healthy eating, decision-making and body image. The HEALS team comprises mental health providers, dietitians and medical providers who can help provide resources and educate students who have been affected by concerns about eating and body image.
If you have questions about resources or services, contact Health Promotion and Wellness, promotinghealth@psu.edu.