The University of Utah’s School of Dance, recognized as one of the largest and oldest dance programs in the United States, serves around 200 undergraduate and 15 graduate students. The rigorous demands of the dance profession can adversely affect mental health, with a notable 2014 study from the National Institute of Health revealing that 12% of dancers experience diagnosed eating disorders, and this figure rises to 16.4% among ballet dancers. This research indicates that dancers are three times more likely to suffer from eating disorders than their non-dancer peers.
To better understand the impact of diet culture within the dance community at the University of Utah, The Daily Utah Chronicle interviewed several current and former students. Annalise Wood, a junior who balances training at Ballet West Academy with her studies, described dance as both a physical and mental outlet. “Dance gives you a sense of empowerment,” she explained, although she acknowledged challenges in managing time and prioritizing well-being amid the demanding schedule.
Many dancers, including Brielle Boyd, a junior minoring in dance, reported feeling pressure to excel from a young age. Boyd noted the competitive atmosphere often leads to a mindset where non-participating dancers feel undervalued. Former student Benjamin Hannum highlighted the cutthroat nature of this environment, indicating that competition can be especially intense among female dancers.
Sara Larsen, a fourth-year biomedical engineering student and former professional dancer, shared her experiences in high-pressure dance settings, where humiliation for mistakes is common. “It’s rare to meet someone who hasn’t faced an eating disorder,” she stated, though she emphasized that the joy of dance often outweighed these challenges.
Dancers highlighted various coping mechanisms, including counseling, which Boyd found helpful. She noted that having an external perspective can help reframe harmful thoughts. Hannum spoke about the importance of humility and perseverance in overcoming insecurities. He emphasized making conscious choices about participating in ballet despite personal challenges regarding body image.
While many dancers at the University of Utah reported positive experiences, they recognized that inherent stress persists. They appreciated resources such as dieticians and physical therapists that promote healthy practices. Wood mentioned that the institution does not explicitly discuss diet culture as a problem but noted more efforts to encourage a healthy mindset compared to other environments.
Hannum expressed gratitude for the supportive faculty at the U, which boosted his confidence and helped him understand that body shape should not define a dancer’s worth. In contrast, he described the culture at his current company, Sarasota Ballet, as promoting an unhealthy image, making it clear that Utah’s environment is more inclusive.
Dancers also addressed the need for open discussions about mental health and diet culture within the community. Boyd emphasized the importance of sharing personal experiences to foster a shift in attitudes across the dance industry. Wood called for advocacy to protect mental well-being, highlighting ongoing efforts to challenge negative cultural norms in dance.
Overall, while challenges remain, the students at the University of Utah’s School of Dance are actively working to promote mental health awareness and foster a supportive environment for their peers. For those seeking support, student mental health resources are available through the University’s Student Affairs website.
