Eating Disorder Policy
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EATING DISORDERS IN STUDENT- ATHLETES
Texas A&M University Athletic Department has created an Eating Disorder Committee consisting of Team Physician, Team Athletic Trainer, Team Strength Coach, Registered Dietitian, Athletic Department Deputy Athletic Director, and Consulting Psychologist to assist student athletes with nutritional concerns and disordered eating behaviors. This committee will provide education, treatment, and referrals concerning disordered eating.
RESPONSE PROTOCOL
The assigned team professional Athletic Trainer should be contacted concerning any athlete with suspected behaviors possibly related to disordered eating. Athletes are referred to the medical doctor for evaluation. The medical doctor may refer to appropriate members of the treatment team as deemed appropriate.
Student-athletes may self refer to the medical doctor, athletic trainer, dietitian, strength coach, or psychologist. This person should refer the athlete to the team athletic trainer.
THE STUDENT-ATHLETE'S CONFIDENTIALITY SHOULD ALWAYS BE MAINTAINED BY PROFESSIONAL STAFF.
INTERVENTION, REFERRAL & TREATMENT
The goal of intervention is to provide the student athlete proper medical treatment. It is an opportunity to let the student-athlete know someone cares, and that there are helpful resources available.
1. Student-athlete is referred to medical doctor for evaluation.
a. Medical doctor may refer to counseling psychologist and registered dietitian as deemed appropriate for the individual.
b. Continued psychological and nutritional counseling may be required as deemed appropriate by medical doctor.
2. The decision to continue with athletic involvement must be made by the medical doctor. A physical exam may be required for return to training if the athlete has been sidelined or has taken leave from school.
3. Eating Disorder Committee meets as needed to review student-athlete's progress.
DISCIPLINARY ACTION
1. Compliance with the Eating Disorder Team's treatment plan is mandatory. Failure to comply may result in dismissal from sports participation and/or loss of scholarship.
2. Student-athletes creating a disruption in the residence halls, during athletic involvement, or on campus due to their behavior may be referred to the Student Affairs Disciplinary process.
