UTSA offices offer healthy-eating advice

(Feb. 23, 2004)--Worried about gaining the freshman 15?  Can't get your mind off food?  Constantly counting calories?  As part of National Eating Disorders Awareness Week, UTSA Student Health Services, Counseling Services and the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics are teaming with UTSA psychologist Elizabeth Stanczak to host an information session at 6 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 26, in the University Center Laurel Room (2.01.28).

Students concerned about their eating habits or those of a friend can attend the session, which will offer anonymous screenings for eating disorders and educate students on how to stop letting food, weight and calories control their lives.

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 95 percent of people with eating disorders are between the ages of 12 and 25, and the majority of those who have an eating disorder don't seek treatment because of shame or social stigma.  The goal of Thursday's information session/screening is to reduce the stigma attached to eating disorders and let students know help is available.

Students don't have to have an eating disorder to benefit from the program. Food concerns, body dissatisfaction and low self-esteem can keep a student from achieving at school and hinders social activities such as dating or being with friends.  The program offers education and screening to help students stop unhealthy eating habits.

The session is free and open to all.  Student-athletes are encouraged to attend and will have the opportunity to earn life skills points by attending the session.

For more information, contact Elizabeth Stanczak at 210-458-4140.

--Leigh Anne Gullett