Give Your Sister Permission to Eat
Those were just a few of the stats I found in researching my master’s thesis on the prevalence of eating disorders among college females.
Ok, but enough stats, humans are not numbers.
I had an eating disorder during college, and didn’t know it. No one knew it, and certainly no one was talking about it. Eating disorders are still a taboo topic, but when we shed light on these murky topics we have hope for getting people help and maybe even preventing disorders in the first place.
Something that has been not only helpful, but a great bonding experience for sorority sisters, is a talk I give to chapters and schools called “Give Your Sister (and Yourself) Permission To Eat.” At this event we discuss how college life affects diet culture and disordered eating, how to notice if you are developing unhealthy habits, and how to help a friend who is struggling with their own eating disorder.
Even better, I have heard that this talk has opened up deeper conversations among members to talk about not only eating disorders, but mental health, and to talk more action in making a positive environment for members and their school at large.
Libby’s signature workshop “Give Your Sister (And Yourself) Permission To Eat” provides sorority members a concise overview of what eating disorders may present as, and how to help a friend who may be struggling. Alongside Libby, participants will discover why diets are not sustainable at their best, and dangerous at their worst. Participants will discover the potential benefits behind learning to trust and respect their body while discussing how an eating disorder can interfere with relationships and social life. Throughout this interactive workshop discussion is highly encouraged. Participants will leave feeling empowered to support their sisters, and themselves, through redefining what health truly is.
Bio:
Libby Parker, MS, RD, CDN, CEDRD is an international best-selling author, and Certified Eating Disorders Registered Dietitian. Her book, Permission To Eat, guides readers through eating disorder recovery with education and action steps she uses with private clients. Using intuitive eating methods and evidence based practices, Libby creates a safe and accepting learning environment. She has taught in the nutrition department at a local college since 2014, and was a recipient of the “Top 20 Under 40” award for innovative leadership in San Luis Obispo County. Libby’s group practice, Not Your Average Nutritionist, provides clients with a framework to support a positive relationship with food. For more information visit her website or follow Libby on Instagram @notyouraveragenutritionist
Listen to my interview on the “Fraternity Foodie” podcast about eating disorders on college campuses. https://greekuniversity.org/libby-parker-interview/
I hope to meet you and your sisters soon!
