Why Continuing Eating Disorder Treatment in College Is Important

Being in college is a very exciting time for many people. There is a newfound sense of freedom that comes with making new friends, being in a new place, and participating in new experiences. While your new college life can be very exhilarating, it can also be scary and full of change. Some challenges could be a newfound independence and increased responsibility, being in an unfamiliar environment, loss of personal space and privacy, living away from parents, friends, and other support people, an abundance of food choices and food-centered activities, changes in routine, loss of structure, increased workload, academic and financial pressures, desire to fit in, exposure to drugs and alcohol, and increased screen time with online class. Many people in college also worry about their bodies and how they might change – which by the way, body changes during college are totally normal!!

For those in eating disorder treatment and recovery, it is important to have a plan to combat these challenges or any barriers that may arise. Recovery in a college setting can differ significantly from recovery at home, often presenting new challenges. However, being away at school doesn’t mean recovery has to pause—continued progress is absolutely possible with the right support and strategies in place.

Here are some reasons why continuing eating disorder treatment in college is important: 

Continuity of care

Continuing your care and treatment when going to college is a chance to talk through any issues or challenges that arise, work towards your goals, and receive support. This is a great way to stay accountable and continue to work towards recovery.

Body Image

There is a lot of room for comparison when going to college. Comparison of clothes, makeup, bodies, and so much more. While our society normalizes comparison and always wanting the next best thing, it is important to challenge these beliefs. Talking through your struggles and fighting them is a great way to improve your relationship with your body.

Meal Planning

Thinking about meals and snacks can be challenging when college life gets busy and stressful. Planning this out with your dietitian is a great way to set yourself up for success. You can talk about your preferences and what you have available and then create a plan to make sure you are getting what you need.

A Space Away from Diet Culture 

College campuses are certainly not insulated from diet culture. There can be calories on the dining hall menu or people on campus talking about weight and bodies or an intense gym culture. So, having a space with your RD where you can discuss these topics can be super helpful! 

Although very exciting and new, college life can pose many challenges but it is important to remember that you are not alone in your journey. 

Heading to College? You Deserve Support in Recovery. 

College can be an incredible time of growth, independence, and new experiences—but it can also bring challenges that impact your eating disorder recovery. Whether you’re facing a change in routine, increased academic stress, or a campus steeped in diet culture, you don’t have to navigate it alone.

At Courage to Nourish, we specialize in supporting college students in eating disorder treatment and recovery. Our dietitians provide compassionate, weight-inclusive care that fits into your unique college lifestyle. Together, we’ll help you build a plan that supports your well-being, body image, and food choices—no matter where you are in your journey.

We proudly serve students attending colleges and universities in the DC, Maryland, and Virginia area, including:

• University of Maryland, College Park
• American University
• George Washington University
• Georgetown University
• University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC)
• Towson University
• Johns Hopkins University
• Howard University
• George Mason University
• Virginia Tech (NoVA campus)
• University of Virginia
• Goucher College
• Loyola University Maryland
• Catholic University
• Marymount University
• Montgomery College
• Northern Virginia Community College
  …and more!

Reach out today to learn how we can support you in making college life and recovery work together. Whether you’re just starting school or returning for another year, we’re here to help you feel empowered, nourished, and supported.