Thirty million Americans will struggle with a full-blown eating disorder and millions more will battle negative food and body-image issues. But because of stigma surrounding eating disorder myths, many people don't get the support they need.

To help raise campus awareness, Pat Walker Health Center's Eating Disorder Treatment team is organizing a Campus Awareness Walk.

Join members from all across campus at noon Thursday, April 19, for a few short laps around campus, and help raise awareness, bust myths, get people informed, and empower those to seek they support they need.

• Date: Thursday, April 19
• Time: Noon to 12:30 p.m.
• Location: Arkansas Union Mall

"Eating disorders are real, complex and devastating conditions that can have serious consequences for health, productivity and relationships," said Dr. Debbie Deere, health center provider. "We encourage everyone to join us and help raise awareness about the dangers of eating disorders."

Participants should plan to meet at the Arkansas Union Mall. Signs and banners are encouraged, and some also be handed out at the walk.

"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 Deere, health center physician and member of the 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 outpatient eating disorder treatment team encourages anyone on campus who may have an eating disorder, or have concerns about a friend or colleague, to reach out to the health center for help by calling 479-575-4451.

Learn more about the health center's nutrition services at health.uark.edu.