As many as 30 million people in the U.S. have an eating disorder, and 95% of people with eating disorders are ages 12-25, according to Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital. This week, Feb. 27 to March 5, is Eating Disorder Awareness Week. 

To help bring awareness about eating disorders to the campus community, the Pat Walker Health Center's eating disorder treatment team is hosting an event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, March 3, in the Arkansas Union Connections Lounge. There will be food, flowers and information available for those who stop by.  

Eating disorder awareness is important because so many people suffer silently while it can have grave physical, mental and social implications. "We've seen a rise in the number of people affected, as well as in the severity of eating disorders since the pandemic started," said Dr. Debbie Deere, health center physician and member of the health center's eating disorder treatment team. "We want others to know that healing from an eating disorder is possible, and it's best to embark on that journey with support." 

The theme for this year is "It's time for change," according to the National Alliance for Eating Disorders, who co-sponsors EDAW with the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA). "By coming together, we will focus on the message that now is the time for more: more equity, inclusion, access, outreach, early intervention, education, representation, advocacy and awareness." 

The goal of EDAW is to raise awareness of the prevalence of eating disorders, which often go unnoticed and undiagnosed, especially for those with historically marginalized identities. Eating disorders happen to individuals regardless of age, race, sexual orientation, gender identity, size, etc. 

"Since you cannot tell if someone has an eating disorder based on how they look, it is important that we understand the warning signs and that students know that we have weight inclusive care available on our campus," said Meredith Moore, CAPS counselor and lead mental health clinician for the health center's eating disorder treatment team. 

For anyone who may be struggling with an eating disorder, Pat Walker Health Center can help provide or locate support so that you do not have to try to do this work alone. NEDA has a helpline that you can call (1-800-931-2237), and it is available Monday-Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET and Friday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET.