Allison Insunza, Speaker at Obesity Conference

California State University, United States

Title : Body acceptance & self-love: Helping students overcome conflicts with their physical bodies to increase feelings of self-worth, to improve mental health outcomes, and guide them in leading healthier, more purposeful lives

Abstract:

At CSULB, we have implemented an eight-week series that helps students overcome conflicts with their bodies. Not only have we seen immediate improvements in self-compassion, self-judgment, isolation, mindfulness, and preoccupation with their body image; this impact has been sustained several years later. In this presentation, we will share the results of our program, discuss how to bring a similar program to your institution, and sustain positive effects for years to come.

Audience Takeaway:

Identify an evidence-based intervention for helping people who are experiencing body image disturbance
List the steps needed to begin a body positive program at your institution
Complete an activity to increase self-compassion

Biography:

Allison Insunza has been working in the field of health promotion for 10 years. She is a Certified Health Education Specialist, Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor, and Licensed Body Positive facilitator. In her role as a Health Educator at CSULB, she has been a Body Positive facilitator since 2016. Since then, she has facilitated 1-2 groups a semester and presented at the following conferences: ACHA Annual Meeting 2018, NIRSA Region VI Conference in 2023, and the 2023 ARHE/ARS/AAPG Annual Conference & HECAOD National Meeting.