College is an unexplainable experience.
It might seem like just yesterday you moved into your college dorm or apartment, eager for what a new school year has in store. Whether you’re a new freshman or seasoned senior, college can be challenging in a variety of ways.
For many students, college is the first time they are away from home and living by themselves.
Every college student has had to figure out how to eat in a dining hall or apartment alongside keeping up with classes, extracurriculars, part-time jobs, fostering new relationships, and the pressures that comes along with being a young adult.
College life is a time filled with change.
It makes sense why the transition to college is one of the most prevalent times for an eating disorder to emerge.
When you have an eating disorder or are in recovery, being at college brings up challenges and if you:
- Feel like you’re constantly thinking about food
- Find yourself being rigid with the types of food you allow yourself to consume
- Wonder if the “freshman 15” actually exists
- Feel that the way you feel about yourself heavily depends on what you eat or if you exercise
If any of the above resonate with you – keep reading, because you are not alone.
Make sure your time at College is one of the BEST times of your life!
College students everywhere have these same feelings. It’s how you manage them that determines where they take you.
- Some folks may avoid social situations where food will be involved.
- Some are too rigid with their exercise routine and miss out on much needed sleep.
- Many college students who experience challenges with food feel alone, anxious, stressed, stuck, and unsure of what to do next.
You really are not alone and there is a way to get the support that will help you while living at college.
One of the best ways to challenge and navigate “eating healthy” during college is to find a space to support and lift you up. A space to talk with others in the same situation. And there are others like you.
Something we dietitians have learned from our years of working with clients is that college students need a safe space to talk openly with others going through the same challenges – peers they can relate to and share in their journey together.
At Marci RD Nutrition, we offer a group program for college students that offers this support …
This program is that type of space, created for college aged students who are curious about improving their relationship to food and their body.
Maybe you had an eating disorder in the past and you’ve noticed thoughts coming up again.
Or maybe this is all brand new to you but you’re interested in learning more about “eating healthy” in college.
In this group program, you will have the opportunity to connect with peers and engage in meaningful conversation. It is a space where they can do most of the talking, processing and lead the discussion.
Eating “Healthy” and Living Well at College is a group program surrounding common challenges college students may face and offer a safe place to:
- Learn what it means to “eat healthy” and set yourself up for success physically, mentally, and emotionally during your college years
- Feel seen, heard and understood by peers who get it
- Challenge common myths such as the “freshman 15” and fad dieting
- Receive support and guidance from a registered dietitian
- Learn tools to navigate college by covering a variety of topics such as: Debunking diet culture, body image, social media, navigating social situations (friends, family, relationships), health at every size (HAES), and diversity.
Our next Eating “Healthy” and Living Well at College group starts on Tuesday, February 7, 2023 and runs for two months.
You can click the button below to apply for the program.
Our Eating “Healthy” and Living Well at College groups are led by Registered Dietitian, Anita Dharwadkar.
Anita is passionate about working with young adults who suffer from chronic illness alongside their Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, and Body Image concerns.
She has extensive experience with Family Based Treatment which informs her approach when working with families and youth.
If you are interested in joining our next group, please apply for the program here and Anita will be in touch to discuss your application.
Please note: We do limit these groups to a maximum of 8 participants to ensure everyone receives an equal opportunity to share experiences and receive the adequate support they need to learn these new skills.
Our group programs are not covered by insurance and you can join us from anywhere as they are virtual groups.
More details on the group program are below:
MEETING TIMES: Tuesdays from 6:00-7:15 pm
DATES: February 7, February 14, February 21, February 28, March 14, March 21, March 28
(Please note there is a break on March 7th)
LOCATION: Virtually via Zoom
FEE: $395 or 2 payments of $215
If you have any questions about the program, please reach out to our assistant here.