MEDIA ADVISORY: MU Counseling Center to Host Events During Eating Disorder Awareness Week

February 17th, 2016

By Amanda Narverud

WHAT : The MU Counseling Center will promote healthy body image and raise awareness about the prevention, detection and treatment of eating disorders during the week of Feb. 22. The Counseling Center is working in collaboration with several campus partners, including the Student Health Center, Multicultural Center, Residence Halls Association, Student Wellness Advocates, Women’s Center, Feminist Student Union and Mizzou Store.

National Eating Disorders Awareness Week aims to reduce the stigma surrounding eating disorders, improve access to treatment, and work toward preventing eating disorders and body image issues. Displays will be posted in multiple locations, and several events will be held on campus throughout the week.

A free online eating disorder screening also is available to help determine if someone might have an eating disorder that needs professional attention. The screening can be taken at http://mentalhealthscreening.org/screening/mizzou. Any student who would like follow-up services can contact the MU Counseling Center to make an appointment at 573-882-6601.

WHO: Students, faculty and staff of MU.

WHEN & WHERE:

Monday, Feb. 22 – Wednesday, Feb. 24

Operation Beautiful

All day

Students are encouraged to post positive messages on the mirrors of public restrooms.

Monday, Feb. 22

Fattitude Film and Discussion

6 – 7:30 p.m., Women’s Center, G108 Student Center

Watch an extended clip from a body-empowering film. This event is in collaboration with McCallum Place Eating Disorders Center of St. Louis, Mo. A panel including the filmmakers, mental health providers and medical health providers will be present to facilitate a discussion after the screening.

Monday, Feb. 22 – Friday, Feb. 26

Loving Kindness Meditation Break

12:15 – 12:45 p.m., Contemplative Practice Center, Lower Level of St. Thomas More Newman Center

Students, faculty and staff can experience the benefits of loving-kindness meditation. This practice cultivates self-compassion and positive emotions. All are welcome, no experience necessary.

Wednesday, Feb. 24

Body Monologues

6 – 7:30 p.m., Multicultural Center, G107 Student Center

At this event, members of different student organizations will join to perform various forms of artistic expression, such as music, poetry and spoken word. Light snacks and drinks provided.

 

For a full schedule of the week’s events, please visit http://counseling.missouri.edu/.