Did you know in the United States, 20 million women and 10 million men will struggle with an eating disorder at some point in their lives? But because of stigma surrounding eating disorder myths, many people don't get the support they need.

To help bring awareness about eating disorders to the campus community, Pat Walker Health Center is hosting the "You Are Enough" activity and awareness event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, March 9, in the Arkansas Union Connections Lounge.

"Eating disorders are not a phase, fad or lifestyle choice; they are serious, potentially life-threatening conditions that affect a person's emotional and physical health," said Dr. Debbie Deere, health center physician and member of the health center's Eating Disorder Treatment Task Force. "Our hope is to get out on campus and raise awareness about a disease that impacts many students, whether they know it or not."

The awareness event is in conjunction with National Eating Disorder Awareness Week — Feb. 26 through March 4 — and includes various resources and activities designed to educate students on healthy eating habits, positive body image and much more. Healthy snacks and giveaways will be handed out throughout the day.

The goal of National Eating Disorders Awareness (#NEDAwareness) Week is to shine the spotlight on eating disorders and put life-saving resources into the hands of those in need. 

The health center offers several resources to help students struggling with disordered eating, including nutrition counseling that empowers patients to respect and nourish their body. For more information about available nutrition services, see the health center website.

Mark Your Calendars!

Join members from all across campus at noon, on Thursday, April 19, for an Eating Disorder Awareness Walk. Help raise awareness, bust myths, get people informed, and empower those to seek they support they need.

Participants should plan to meet at the Arkansas Union Mall. Signs and banners are encouraged, and will also be handed out prior to the walk. The campus walk will be 30-minutes, and consist of a few short laps around campus.