Central Michigan Life

Issue date: 2/20/08 Section: News

Grand Rapids senior Samantha Britton volunteers to help out with a demonstration for Dr. Ron Thompson. Thompson was on campus speaking about healthy exercises and eating habits Monday in the Bovee University Center Rotunda. [Click to enlarge]

Exercise is playing a bigger role in eating disorders, an Indiana University professor told 50 students Monday.

"With spring break coming up, it can be a big problem amongst college students," said Ron Thompson, who co-founded Bloomington Hospital's Eating Disorders Program and maintains a private psychotherapy practice in Bloomington, Ind.

Thompson addressed several issues regarding self-image and influences from people such as coaches or pop culture, during a forum in Bovee University Center Rotunda.

Thompson stressed people are making bad decisions by not listening to their bodies.

"Your body doesn't lie to you - your head will lie to you," he said. "People with exercise problems don't listen to their body."

Thompson also said there are several different signs that deal with eating disorders and over-exercising usually is one of the most prominent. Some other signs include overstress, loss of immunities to illness and a decrease in performance.

There is a good way of confronting people with these types of problems, Thompson said.

"Approach them privately," he said. "It's good not to directly confront them about eating disorders, but rather it is better to ask them if everything is all right. You can ask if there is anything you can do to help."

Thompson talked about the effects peer pressure has on students to exercise.

Grand Rapids freshman Lindsey Forton said peer pressure is one of the biggest reasons students choose to push their bodies to the limit.

"It's tough being around people our age because it puts more pressure on students," Forton said. "Staying healthy is difficult, especially as a freshman."

Whitehall senior Libby Carpenter said people can let exercise control their every waking moment.

"It is more emotional than anything," she said. "People try to fill emotional gaps when they are actually hurting themselves."

College students are in the age group that is at one of the highest risks of getting an eating disorder, Thompson said. He also said the transition from high school to college can make or break people, and balance is the important thing to remember.

"College students have always been at risk," Thompson said. "It is a hard transition for students to go to college. They tend to get worse during a transition."

Thompson said those who want to find out more information regarding these issues should visit their campus counselor or visit a variety of Web sites.

"I like for students who need to help to visit their counselors first," Thompson said. "It will benefit you."


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