Life at university is hectic, which means that finding the time to go shopping for healthy ingredients and cooking something nutritious can be almost possible. Money is also a problem, and for some people the student stereotype of surviving off a tin of baked beans a day is actually true!

In certain cases however, student eating habits can become serious, and even life threatening. The most common age that eating disorders develop is between 16 and 25, and they are often triggered by issues such as depression, relationship problems or anxiety. This makes students particularly vulnerable, as leaving behind friends, family and partners to go to university is a stressful situation.

In addition to the above reasons, disorders can also develop if the sufferer has low self esteem. This is sometimes caused by unrealistic ideals encouraged by the media, such as the ‘size zero’ trend favoured by celebrities. For many sufferers, controlling their eating patterns gives them some control over their lives, and it distracts them from emotional problems. Also, many people forget that males are also at risk from conditions such as anorexia and bulimia, not just females.

How can you tell if someone you know has an eating disorder? Many sufferers try to hide their problem, so it can be difficult to notice at first. However, there are some general signs to look out for. If your friend makes frequent excuses for missing meals, visits the bathroom very soon afterwards, or has an obsession with memorising the calories in certain foods, he or she could be at risk. Excessive exercise and irritable behaviour are also things to watch out for, although not all people exhibit the same symptoms.

If you know anyone who has an eating disorder (or if you are concerned that you have one), then you should seek help immediately. It will seriously affect your life at university, as it can lead to exhaustion, the inability to concentrate on your studies, and isolation from your friends. Also, side-effects include infertility, brittle bones, and kidney damage.

Here is some handy advice on how to fight disorders such as anorexia (but do remember that a trip to your GP is an important step to recovery): first find someone that you can talk to about your issues. This could be your mum, your best friend, or a trained counsellor. By accepting that you have a problem, you are already on your way to recovery.

The university can also help you. For instance, stop by the Students’ Union Information and Advice Centre (Building 37) and talk to one of their trained advisors. Alternatively, you can email them from www.suaic.susu.org. You can also book a doctor’s appointment at the on-campus University Health Centre.

For more advice and information, contact the UK charity BEAT, which aims to help people with eating disorders, as well as offering support to their friends and family members.