Stress: A factor contributing to eating disorders
In times of transition, stress can play a large role in the development of eating disorders among college students. “Stress produces cortisol, a hormone that easily increases your appetite, causing some to overeat,” said Nina Campbell, a senior psychology major. “However, stress can cause this to go the other way around, and some may not have an appetite to eat.” Campbell said she has known students who have been diagnosed with an eating disorder due to stress. She explained that because the topic is not discussed very often, many students may not be aware of the resources available to them.