Guide for Faculty and Staff on
Eating Disorders and How to Make a Referral

 

Q: What are Eating Disorders?

A: There are three major types of eating disorders: anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder. Early warning signs of anorexia and bulimia usually include very strict dieting and exercise. In the case of anorexia, weight loss may become apparent immediately, while individuals with bulimia nervosa may maintain average or above-average weight or show dramatic fluctuations in weight. Binge eating disorder can begin with occasional bingeing, which then develops into a pattern of frequent “compulsive” overeating. All three types of eating disorders impact academic performance, a person’s short-term and long-term health, and can be life-threatening. Identification of the disorder early and referral to appropriate professionals are important factors in recovery.

Q: What are some symptoms that I may actually observe in the classroom that could indicate that someone has an eating disorder?

A: This is a tricky question as not all people with eating disorders fit into the typical symptoms. However, here are a few “common” symptoms that you may witness that should be a cause for concern

  • Extreme weight loss, weight gain, or weight fluctuation
  • Blackouts or dizziness when standing from seated position
  • Impaired concentration and memory
  • Depression, apathy, suicidal feelings/attempts
  • Loss of interest in and motivation to engage in activities previously enjoyed
  • Irritability, anxiety, moodiness
  • Reporting sleep disturbance
  • Withdrawal in social relationships; secretiveness
  • Increasingly distorted view of self (including body image, skills and abilities, worth)
  • Absence from class
  • Frequent illness, injury or complaints of headaches and fatigue
  • Decreased examination performance
  • Overachiever
  • Impaired help-seeking behavior (e.g., from advisors, instructors, tutors) and teamwork (e.g., group class projects)

Q: These behaviors could be true of many illnesses or problems, such as depression. What if I am not sure?

A: Nearly 50% of individuals with eating disorders also suffer from depression, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or substance abuse. (These may be predisposing factors or consequences of eating disorders.) If you know a student is not well, regardless of his/her symptoms, make a referral to the Counseling Center or Student Health Services, where professionals can assess and treat the student.

Eating & Body Image Concerns
George Mason University
Campus Resources

  • Counseling Center, Fu-lin Lee (703) 993-2380
  • Dining Services, Lois Durant (703) 993-3283
  • Health Education Services, Judy Palmore (703) 993-3690
  • Inter Collegiate Athletics, Nena Rogers (703) 993-3594
  • Student Health Services, Wagida Abdalla (703) 993-2831
  • Student Activities/Greek Life, Juliet Blank-Godlove (703) 993-2909
  • Women’s Studies, Research and Resource Center, Rebecca Walter (703) 993-2897

Q: If I do think it’s an eating disorder how should I approach him/her?

A: Here are a few guidelines for approaching someone with an eating disorder:

Learn more about eating disorders. Knowledge is power. The person you are about to help will sense and appreciate your sensitivity and understanding if you know what is it like for her or him to have an eating disorder. You can find more information on www.nationaleatingdisorders.org (Educators: Some "Don'ts" for Those Working with Students) or www.gmu.edu/departments/csdc/eat (How to Approach Someone Who Might Have an Eating Disorder). You can also request a consultation with a professional from the Counseling Center of Student Health Services to find out effective ways to assist the person.

Collect concrete information. Pay attention to evidence of at-risk behaviors, such as those listed in this handout, such as depression, irritability, complaining of being tired and weak, and difficulty concentrating. Be as objective as you can be in this data-collection process.

Invite the person for a private talk. Once you think you have enough concrete information from your own observations or others’ reports and/or you have consulted with a professional, invite the person for a private talk. Stay with the facts/behaviors you have observed. For example, “I noticed that you have complained about feeling weak for the past two weeks,” Use “I” statements to avoid any feeling of accusation from the person. Avoid blaming and making assumptions, such as “You have caused a lot of concern among people who care about you,” or “You definitely have an eating disorder.”

Gently ask if help is needed. You may say, “Based on my observations, I am concerned about your health and well being. Would you consider getting help? If so, I will help you to get in touch with someone.” Oftentimes, you would be surprised that people suffering from eating disorders may be ready to get help as soon as you reach out to them. On the other hand, they might deny having any problems; in this situation you cannot do much beyond what you have done. Stay firm, caring and supportive no matter what the outcome is. If help is rejected, do not feel discouraged. Denial is a common obstacle to any recovery. As long as you have expressed your concern, allow the person time to consider what you have discussed. He or she has to return to you at some point when s/he is ready for help. If you are unsure of the seriousness of the situation or further action is needed, seek consultation with Student Health Services or the Counseling Center.

Make a referral. Refer the person to the Counseling Center or Student Health Services. These two services work closely together in meeting the needs of the students. Let the student choose whichever one s/he feels more comfortable with.

Know your limits. You may continue to feel concerned for the person whether or not s/he goes for help. Remain open and available if s/he needs to talk to you, but do not overextend yourself and your time. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or drained as a result of helping others, please consider seeking consultation from a professional.