Eating Disorders Awareness Week, set for Feb. 24 through March 2, is an annual campaign dedicated to educating the public about eating disorders while providing hope and visibility to those affected, according to the National Eating Disorders Association. Eating disorders rank second in mortality among mental health conditions, with one person dying every 52 minutes. This year's theme, "The Time Is Now," emphasizes the importance of sharing resources, encouraging early detection and treatment, and supporting ongoing research.

The eating disorder treatment team at the Pat Walker Health Center will host two events in support of this impactful campaign. These events offer students, faculty and staff an opportunity to learn about the realities of eating disorders and to support those who may be struggling.

"Eating disorders and weight stigma are prevalent on college campuses, and they are isolating. Awareness is the first step toward reducing stigma and helping students get the care they need," said Dr. Debbie Deere, physician and medical director of the Eating Disorder Treatment Team.

"Our hope is that these events will empower students, faculty and staff to recognize signs of disordered eating, support each other and know that resources are readily available," said Cassidy Mansur, LAC and lead eating disorder mental health clinician at the university's Counseling and Psychological Services.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Healing Conversations: Eating Disorder Awareness (Live Q&A Panel)
This live Q&A panel will be from 3:30-4:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26, in HLTH 1116. Panelists are from the Eating Disorder Treatment Team at Pat Walker Health Center (Debbie Deere, M.D.; Cassidy Mansur, LAC; Heidi Stophlet, RDN; and Krysta Young, Ph.D.). Topics may include how to identify and support someone struggling with disordered eating and body image concerns, treatment team structures and any other topics the facilitators share. Attendees are encouraged to ask questions and learn about early detection, treatment options and community support. RSVPs are encouraged but not required.

"The Time Is Now": Eating Disorder Awareness Event
This event will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 28, in the International Connections Lounge in the Arkansas Union. Come grab a white carnation to symbolize hope in recovery, have a snack, make a terrarium and relieve some stress. The event will include the Eating Disorder Treatment Team at Pat Walker Health Center, UREC and Wellness, CAPS Ambassadors and special guests from the Eating Recovery Center in Dallas/Plano, Texas. RSVPs are encouraged but not required.

These events are designed to foster open conversations about disordered eating, encourage early intervention and help the campus community learn how to support those who may be struggling. As NEDA notes, "Together, let's make this #EDAW a turning point for greater awareness, empathy and support for all impacted by eating disorders."

Students or employees concerned about an eating disorder — either their own or someone else's — can reach out to the Pat Walker Health Center, CAPS, or call the NEDA Helpline at 800-931-2237 (11 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET Monday-Thursday, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET Friday).

For more information about the EDTT at Pat Walker Health Center, visit health.uark.edu. Stay updated with the latest information by following @uarkhealth on Instagram and Facebook and @uarkcaps on Instagram.