The minute September ended and October began, the whole world freaked out. October equals pumpkin spice lattes, sweater weather, and most importantly, Halloween. However, October isn’t just a month filled with pumpkins, comfy outfits, Trick-or-Treating, and classic Halloween movies. October is a month of causes and awareness. Here are the top five causes October includes in its month of awareness, what they’re all about, and what you can do to help raise awareness.
Number Five: National Down Syndrome Awareness Month.
During the entire month of October, individuals with family members and friends who have Down Syndrome come together. They raise awareness about the disability, offer support, and spread a message of hope. Additionally, during Down Syndrome Awareness Month, individuals can learn about the history behind the disability and the life of a person with Down Syndrome. Most importantly, during this month, individuals celebrate the accomplishments of those diagnosed with Down Syndrome and participate in the Buddy Walk, which is a walk of acceptance for people who have Down Syndrome. Now there’s something to support.
Number Four: National Depression Education and Awareness Month.
The federal government has declared October National Depression Education and Awareness Month. National Depression Education and Awareness Month educates individuals on the possible causes of depression (there are many), the possible treatments of depression (what can work for certain people), and what it’s like living and coping with depression on a daily basis. Additionally, individuals come together to share personal stories, to inform people that they are not alone, and to provide support for those who believe that it doesn’t get better. You can help raise awareness by encouraging individuals to visit a doctor and get screened or by supporting those who you know have depression.
Number Three: National Bullying Prevention Month.
According to STOMP Out Bullying, October is National Bullying Prevention Month. During National Bullying Prevention Month, individuals use their voice for good. Some people encourage everyone around the country to come together to stop bullying and cyberbullying, while others raise awareness of the harmful effects of bullying and the good that comes from ending it. For ways that you can get involved, visit www.stompoutbullying.org.
Number Two: National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
During National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, individuals share their experiences with domestic violence to help others and raise awareness. They also celebrate their lives free from domestic violence and celebrate the memories of lives lost. To help raise awareness, you can change your social media picture to show that you support the National Network to End Domestic Violence, you can talk to others through social media and support them, and you can donate and volunteer for the National Network to End Domestic Violence. Most importantly, you can keep the conversation going.
Number One: Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
According to The National Breast Cancer Foundation, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and it’s a time to go pink. Not only does this month raise awareness for breast cancer and women diagnosed with breast cancer, but it also reminds women of the steps they need to take to detect the disease. This month reminds women that early detection is the best detection, and it encourages women to get their mammograms. To get involved in Breast Cancer Awareness Month and help raise awareness, visit www.nationalbreastcancer.org.