Breaking the Silence: Unmasking Eating Disorders in College Students

By Sarah King

Sweetgrass Psychiatry Intern

Disordered eating encompasses a range of unhealthy eating habits, such as skipping meals, obsessing over “clean” foods, following restrictive diets, overeating, and feeling anxious about eating in social situations. These behaviors can often progress into more serious eating disorders. In fact, studies show that 18.75% of female college students are at risk for developing an eating disorder, with many engaging in behaviors like binge eating or self-induced vomiting. A staggering 91% of college women have dieted at some point to control their weight.

The consequences of disordered eating extend far beyond the individual’s relationship with food. Unhealthy eating habits can affect physical health—impacting the heart, bones, teeth, and digestive system—and are linked to mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and even suicidal ideation. The connection between disordered eating and mental health is especially concerning in vulnerable populations, such as female college students. Additionally, disordered eating is the second deadliest behavioral health disorder, following opioid overdose.

Sociocultural influences play a significant role in shaping eating habits. Family environments, for instance, can heavily impact a college woman's body image and eating behaviors. Negative body talk, or "fat talk," within families has been found to correlate with poor body satisfaction and disordered eating. Conversely, positive body talk and mindful eating discussions are linked to healthier body images.

Attachment theory also provides insight into disordered eating. Early relationships with caregivers help form emotional regulation skills, and insecure attachment styles—marked by anxiety and avoidance—have been associated with disordered eating. Studies suggest that improving emotional regulation through therapy can help reduce these behaviors.

Other factors contributing to disordered eating include social pressures, social media use, and perceived social support. The impact of platforms like Instagram, where edited photos are the norm, has been linked to increased body dissatisfaction and disordered eating in college students. Additionally, college students with lower levels of perceived social support are more likely to develop unhealthy eating behaviors.

On a broader level, organizational and policy factors also play a role. Many universities are struggling to provide adequate mental health care for students due to a lack of resources, resulting in long wait times for treatment. Programs like the Body Project, which utilize peer educators, have shown promise in reducing disordered eating symptoms by fostering a sense of community and support among students.

Lastly, food insecurity is another environmental factor closely linked to disordered eating. Students who struggle to access nutritious food are at higher risk of developing harmful eating behaviors as they become preoccupied with food and weight management. Addressing food insecurity and promoting mental health care on college campuses is crucial in preventing the escalation of disordered eating behaviors among students.

The solutions to these complex issues lie in multi-faceted interventions, including peer-led education programs, increasing access to mental health resources, and supporting healthy body image and emotional regulation skills. By taking these steps, we can begin to mitigate the impact of disordered eating in the vulnerable college population.

Disordered eating is a complex issue that can affect both your physical and mental well-being. If you or someone you know in South Carolina is struggling with disordered eating symptoms, there is help available. Call Sweetgrass Psychiatry, located in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, at 843-800-1303. We provide compassionate and confidential care to support you on your journey toward recovery. Don’t wait—reach out today.

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