In recognition of Eating Disorder Awareness Week, held Feb. 23–March 1, Oakland University hosted an interactive campus event to raise awareness, promote discussion and support those affected.
On Feb. 26, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., the Rec Well Herman Room in the Recreation Center welcomed students, faculty and community members for a campuswide event focused on increasing awareness of eating disorders.
Hosted by Madison Wyatt, a visiting instructor of nutrition and sports dietitian, the gathering encouraged education, conversation and community support.
“We had an education session with a panel on Monday and we had a screening on Wednesday, and then this was just a crafting therapeutic session,” Wyatt said. “At the eating disorder clinic I work at, there’s a lot of art therapy and positive affirmation, so we wanted to do something like that.”
Attendees came together to show support for people affected by eating disorders through small acts of kindness.
The interactive event featured crafts, decorating activities, eating disorder awareness ribbons and positive message cards, along with information about how to access the counseling center.
The OU Counseling Center supports student well-being by offering confidential, short-term mental health services, including personal counseling, crisis intervention and group therapy. The center serves as a vital resource for students facing mental health challenges, including eating disorders.
“They helped with some of the behind-the-scenes planning of the idea and what we’re doing, but we don’t have anyone specifically on the panel,” Waytt said. “We want to keep growing this week into next year for Eating Disorder Awareness Week by getting them involved a little bit more. We also paired with the PA program, so their students helped us.”
Waytt emphasized that mental health challenges such as eating disorders are far more common than many realize, yet they often go undiscussed.
She said hosting awareness events is crucial because many individuals are hesitant to speak up or seek help. She added that the event was not only intended for those who may be struggling but also designed to uplift anyone who might simply need a moment of encouragement.
A message of support written by Natalya Huffaker, a wellness ambassador for OU’s Rec Well, read: “I will trust my body’s wisdom and honor its needs.”
“I think if people especially resonate or relate to the message, it’s important to write it,” Huffaker said. “If I was, for example, in their shoes and I see that people are showing support, it builds a strong community. A tiny message can do a lot.”
After completing their awareness ribbons and positive message cards, participants distributed them throughout campus buildings, including Rec Well and the athletics department. The goal was to create visible reminders of encouragement and solidarity; small but meaningful signs to let anyone who may be struggling know they are seen, supported and not alone.
Students experiencing mental health challenges are encouraged to seek support through Oakland University’s Counseling Center, located in the Graham Health Center.
Reaching out is an important first step and trained professionals are available to provide guidance and connect students with additional resources beyond awareness events like these.
