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MEDIA RELEASE

CSUN to Host 13th Annual Eating Disorders Awareness Week

(NORTHRIDGE, Feb. 11, 2008) — The National Institute of Mental Health estimates that one percent of women and adolescent girls in the U.S. have anorexia resulting in more than 1,000 deaths annually. Cal State Northridge counseling officials invite the public to join them in the fight against anorexia during the 13th Annual Eating Disorders Awareness Week on Feb. 25-28 at the university.

This year’s message, "Breaking Free: Only I Can Define Me," encourages both men and women to break free from the negative images portrayed through the media, and learn to love the body they have.

"It is really important for CSUN students to know about the harmful consequences of eating disorders," said Kristi Williams, Joint Advocates on Disordered Eating (JADE) educator. "We want them to know that there is help available on campus."

The week will feature a series of events dedicated to educating students on the danger of eating disorders.

On Feb. 25, sociology faculty member Melanie Klein will present "Mirror, Mirror: Body Image and Media," from 11 a.m. to noon in the Thousand Oaks Room of the University Student Union. Klein will examine the media’s construction of beauty and body image and how people focus on an unobtainable ideal.

Internationally recognized speaker Jean Kilbourne will speak on the role advertising plays in representing gender, scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 26, from 2-3 p.m. in the Northridge Center located in the University Student Union on the east side of campus.

Named by the New York Times as one of three most popular speakers on college campuses, Kilbourne will provide perspective on the social impact of advertising. Following her presentation, there will be a book signing.

"Every Body is Beautiful" will conclude the week-long event on Thursday, Feb. 28. Members of JADE will be available on the Matador Walkway to answer questions about food, weight and body image, as well as provide advice for a healthier lifestyle.

Events are free and open to the public. Parking is $5 and available in lot G4. For more information, contact JADE at (818) 677-7500 or e-mail at jade@csun.edu .