CSUN Programs, Activities to Focus on Eating Disorders

Three days of programs, beginning Monday, will tackle the idea of a “perfect body,” as Cal State Northridge observes Eating Disorder Awareness Week.

“We want to help not only students but participants in the community take a different look at themselves so they can appreciate themselves and others for who they are inside,” said Ellen Mayer, a campus counselor.

An estimated 10% of the population suffers from anorexia, bulimia or binge eating, while another 35% are involved in unsafe practices such as yo-yo dieting, restrictive eating and excessive exercising, which increases the risk of developing a full-blown eating disorder.

Billed as “The Mind, Body & Spirit Celebration,” activities will include:

* A fair with massages, make-overs, book displays, information booths and free food from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday in the Grand Salon of the University Student Union at CSUN, 18111 Nordhoff St.

* Discussion on the causes and criteria for eating disorders by psychiatrist Vicky Berkus at 9:30 and 11 a.m. Tuesday in the Grand Salon.

* A panel discussion on “Impossible Expectations,” from 7:30 to 9 p.m. in the lobby of Building 9 of the University Park Apartments, Lassen Street and Zelzah Avenue.

* Professional storyteller Karen Golden will examine self-esteem, from 10 to 11 a.m. Wednesday in the Santa Clarita Room of the University Student Union.

* A body-imagine discussion group for women will convene from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Wednesday at University Counseling Services in the Student Services Building, Room 520.

* Registered dietitian Toni Kohn will talk about losing weight safely, from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Wednesday in the lobby of Building 9 of the University Park Apartments.

All events are free and open to the public.