Health Watch: Reverse Freshman 15
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - You've heard about the freshman 15, teens gaining weight at college. But Medical Reporter Stephanie Stahl is On Your Side with more on how the pressures of social and academic life are actually reversing that trend.
As many as 10 percent of women in college suffer with an eating disorder, such as anorexia and bulimia. Experts are concerned about a rise in what they're calling the reverse freshman 15.
College campuses are booming with activity. What you can't see are a growing number of students battling eating disorders.
"I think it's a huge problem at schools," said Becca Sterner, who battled anorexia and bulimia while in college.
Restricting food is how she dealt with her emotions.
"Living with an eating disorder is nothing I would, I would wish on my worst enemy because it completely takes over your life," said Becca.
Experts say college is a time of transition. It brings new responsibilities and many emotions, which can be overwhelming for many.
"The stress of being away from home definitely. I didn't have that safety net of my parents, of being able to get away," said Becca.
"I think that college students who develop eating disorders lack the ability to develop effective coping mechanisms so then food becomes that way to deal with
the stress," said Leslie Toomer, the manager of admissions at The Renfrew Center of Philadelphia. She says they're seeing more and more college students come for treatment.
"We typically see spikes around mid-term, winter break is a big one, spring break and the summer time," said Leslie.
Parents often notice there's a problem when their child is home on break. Signs to look for include, significant weight loss or weight fluctuations, obsession with dieting or exercising, wearing baggy clothes to stay warm or hide weight loss, mood swings, and social withdrawal.
"It is definitely a problem on the rise, and the more support that you can offer to someone who suffers from an eating disorder the better outcome they will have," said Leslie.
Experts say it's best not to accuse or confront someone who is suffering from an eating disorder.
For more information visit:
The Renfrew Center
National Eating Disorders Association
Reported by Stephanie Stahl, CBS 3
