You say October - we say Halloween! But that’s not what we are talking about today. We have compiled a list of important weeks that will help you plan your nonprofit/ awareness campaigns. 

First, let’s talk about what October month is dedicated to

ADHD Awareness month

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder commonly known as ADHD affects 140-366 million adults and 5% children and adolescents around the world. It is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders of childhood and you’d think it would be well understood. It is not.

Misinformation, misconception, and stigma prevail that affect the self-perception of people with ADHD. These myths also deter people from seeking treatment and cause them to feel guilt and shame when they do.

ADHD Awareness Month's goal is to correct these misunderstandings and highlight the shared experiences of the ADHD community. By raising awareness, better school and workplace environments can be established thereby improving the quality of life of those affected.

Breast cancer awareness month

In 1985, "National Breast Cancer Awareness Month" (NBCAM) was created as a collaborative effort between the American Academy of Family Physicians, AstraZeneca Healthcare Foundation, CancerCare, Inc., and other sponsors to raise awareness and gain funding for research for a cure.

Every October, people all over the world show their support for everyone affected by breast cancer.

Check out National Breast Cancer Foundation’s 2022 RISE campaign here.

Important Weeks to look out for in October

Mental Illness Awareness Week: October 02-08

Mental Illness Awareness Week (MIAW) was established in the U.S. in 1990 in recognition of efforts by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) to educate and increase awareness about mental illness.

It takes place every year during the first full week of October. During this week, mental health advocates and organizations across the world come together to promote community outreach and public education concerning mental illnesses.

Despite the large number of people affected by such disorders, the stigma surrounding mental illness is a major barrier that prevents people from seeking the mental health treatment that they need.

We have curated a few important mental health resources for you.

1. 
   1. Psych Central - The international award-winning website, working since 1995.
   2. Headspace - A guide to practicing mindfulness every day and learning stress management.
   3. Felicity Care - Online therapy with certified counselors (worldwide available)
   4. Suicide Prevention Resource Center - With a mission of zero suicide the site provides resources, lessons, and suicide prevention strategies.
   5. Very Well Mind - Consult this website for a deep understanding of mental health issues - content curated by expert doctors, social workers, therapists, and physicians.

National Health Education Week: October 17-21

National Health Education Week was created by the Society for Public Health Education to help increase awareness about major public health issues and to help people understand why health education plays a critical role. The awareness week is generally celebrated during the third week of October and began in 1995.

People in this profession provide knowledge, skills, and training to complement health providers, policymakers, human resource personnel, educators, and other professionals that impact human wellness.

The purpose of health education is to improve the health status of people, communities, and the nation.

Red Ribbon Week: October 23-31

RED RIBBON WEEK, which is celebrated annually from October 23-31, is USA’s oldest and largest drug prevention awareness program.

It was started by Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as a tribute to Special Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena, who was brutally tortured and murdered in 1985 by drug traffickers he was investigating in Mexico.

Wearing red ribbons during the month of October represents the pledge to live drug-free and honors the sacrifice of all who have lost their lives in the fight against drugs and spreading awareness among young children.

To check more about October's special dates/ days to plan your campaigns, check out our blog on all important days in October. 

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