Eating disorders expert to speak to PSU students

The National Eating Disorders Association estimates that as many as 36 million Americans are battling some type of eating disorder and the numbers are growing. Because most eating disorders manifest themselves in the teenage and college years, it is especially important for students to learn about strategies for the prevention and treatment of eating disorders, according to J.T. Knoll, coordinator of prevention and wellness at Pittsburg State University.

Laura A. Eickman, a specialist in the field of eating disorders, will bring those messages to students at PSU in a program entitled "The Changing Face of Eating Disorders: Implications for Education and Prevention." The free program, sponsored by Student Prevention and Wellness, and the Gorillas In Your Midst peer health education team, will take place from 1-3 p.m. on Thursday, March 30, in the Balkans Room of the Overman Student Center. The program is open to the public.

Eickman received a bachelor of arts degree from the University of Nebraska and both a master's degree and doctorate from Baylor University. Eickman has coordinated campuswide eating disorders education and prevention efforts, developed an eating disorders peer education program for college students, and has spoken to a variety of audiences on health and wellness topics. In addition to education and prevention activities, Eickman also provides individual and group therapy for individuals with eating and body image issues.

For more information:

PSU Prevention and Wellness Programs:
jknoll@pittstate.edu
Eating Disorders (National Eating Disorders Association)
www.nationaleatingdisorders.org
Dr. Laura Eickman:
laura.eickman@gmail.com

---Pitt State---