Tipperary students warned that college stress can lead to eating disorders

As part of Eating Disorders Awareness Week 2018 which runs until March 4th nationwide, the Union of Students in Ireland (USI) is urging college students to be weary of stress having a negative effect on their mental health before, during and after exams, assignment and project deadlines.

The USI is also asking students to seek help if needed during this time and urge students to talk about eating disorders openly on campuses.

“College exams, assignments and projects can be stressful for students, and can be triggering  eating disorders - especially after key exams, assignments and projects are finished. Students’ Unions, staff and friends should be aware of mental health issues because of the level of stress placed on students, and make sure to have frank and open conversations about mental health on campuses,” USI president Michael Kerrigan said.

“A healthy daily schedule doesn’t require intense blocks of studying.  Instead, we’re encouraging students to make sure they have regular meals, sleep and exercise and to be aware of nationwide support services like BodyWhys. It’s important to note once students finish exams or assignments, sticking to a healthy and structured routine is important to prevent developing an eating disorder. Recognising that students who feel they may have an eating disorder can and do recover with support from friends without any judgement will help,” she added.

USI is urging students facing exams, assignment and project deadlines to seek help, and for peers to look after one another before, during and after these stressful periods of time.

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