Summers believes that by confronting a friend who may have a problem, it will let that person know that someone cares enough about them to help and listen. The biggest hurdles in treating an eating disorder are the unwillingness of a person to accept that they have a problem, and then the unwillingness to talk about it. The best things that colleges can do to help people affected by eating disorders is to offer support groups, counseling and nutritional education, and allow people who have recovered to share their experiences in order to help eliminate the secrecy. At Geneseo, there are several options for those who may be suffering from an eating disorder. The counseling center offers confidential appointments.
Summers can offer educational materials and refer students to the proper counseling.
Lauderdale Health Center offers assessment of eating disorders. Especially for Eating Disorders Awareness Week, there are many programs available for any interested students or faculty. Information tables will be set up in the Union on Feb. 15 and 16 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. On Feb. 15 at 7 p.m. there will be a body image program in the Jones Hall main lounge. Summers hopes that Eating Disorders Week can educate students, as well as faculty, staff, administration and coaches, so that if a student comes to them with a problem, they will know what to do.