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• The nation’s top schools observed an Denial of the existence or seriousness of the problem is common among those struggling, and may inhibit help–seeking. For those ready to seek help, there may be limited availability of mental health professionals specializing in eating dis- orders; available treatment may not be affordable and insurance may not cover all treatment needs (or any treatment needs). Individuals with eating disorders often have some traits in common, includ- ing approval–seeking, persistence and perfectionism. These traits can present obstacles to reaching out and asking for help from friends, family or profession- increase in students needing and access- ing mental health services • Both national universities and liberal arts colleges offer several options for men- tal health services to students. Although a variety of services are offered, many schools don’t have enough resources to meet the growing demand. • Counseling centers report an increase in the number of students entering college with a pre–existing mental illness and who are taking psychiatric medication. They also report an increased awareness of mental health issues. als. In addition, mental illnesses, including eating disorders, still carry a certain amount of stigma and misunderstanding. Although stigma surrounding eating disorders and other mental illnesses has lessened, it still exists, and media portrayal and glam- orization of thinness, and even anorexia, continue to be problematic, making it difficult for the individual to admit there’s a problem and seek help. The cultural value placed on thinness and normali- zation of dieting behaviors in the U.S. can contribute to hearing comments from others that encourage and reinforce eating disorder behaviors or family and friends not recognizing signs and symptoms. • On average, 95% of schools report an increase in the number of students utiliz- ing their services • On average, 23% of students at liberal arts schools and 13% at national univer- sities use mental health services. (ADAA, 2007) People with anorexia nervosa have a six fold increase in mortality compared to the general population. Reasons for death include starvation, substance abuse and suicide. (Papadopoulos, 2009) Prevalence of eating disorders is similar across races and ethnicities. (Hudson 2007; Wade, 2011) College mental health services According to the Anxiety Disorders Asso- ciation of America, college students are requesting more services for mental health every year. Results from their 2007 national audit of mental health care at US colleges and universities, indicate that: 9