Have you ever wondered why there are so many awareness days? It seems every month we are inundated with information on some new cause. It can be overwhelming, leaving you with the thoughts as to why it’s all necessary. However, awareness days have a purpose and provide a great way for you to take part in spreading awareness about something that brings you passion.
An Awareness Campaign’s Purpose
Awareness campaigns seek to raise public awareness by educating individuals on causes or health issues. These campaigns use grassroot efforts to educate the public on health issues as well as provide resources for those who need them. There may be some silly awareness days, but others offer an outlet for a sense of community, support, and a moment to share their stories.
One of the best parts about awareness days is that it shines a light on something you might not otherwise know about and inspire you to get involved by volunteering.
November Opportunities
Volunteering has a positive impact on a person’s physical and mental health; the bottom line is that helping others makes us happy. It’s easy to get bogged down with all the monthly awareness campaign options. However, if you take some time to do a little research, you can ultimately locate one (or two!) that inspires you to get involved. November is peppered with some significant awareness initiatives:
- National Diabetes Month– The focus for this year is on the link between diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Diabetes affects more than 30 million Americans.
- COPD Awareness– This event was created to enhance exposure, educate, and rally around to support the 30 million Americans with COPD.
- Alzheimer’s Awareness– This event focuses on providing education about symptoms, treatment, and coping. Over 5 million currently have Alzheimer’s in the U.S.
- International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day (November 23)– Survivor Day is a day where those affected by suicide can come together for healing and support. Suicide takes the lives of over 44,965 Americans every year.
- GERD Awareness Week (November 18-24)– The focus is to encourage chronic heartburn sufferers to get checked and provides information about medical advances that can help stop prevent further progression of the disease. GERD affects approximately 20% of people living in the U.S.
- National Prematurity Awareness Month– An estimated 15 million babies worldwide are born each year prematurely. This event focuses on giving a healthy start for all babies by providing information on research and programs that can prevent premature birth.
Awareness Campaigns and Research
Campaigns surrounding an illness or condition also provide information on advancements being done through clinical research. Clinical research is essential to ensure no one is without adequate treatment and prevention options. Volunteers that participate in clinical research help make this possible. To learn more about volunteering for our clinical trials or our currently enrolling studies, call 203-325-0069, or visit our website.
References:
https://www.seniorliving.org/memory-care/alzheimers/awareness/
https://afsp.org/find-support/ive-lost-someone/survivor-day/
https://www.capitaldigestivecare.com/news-resources/news/gerd-awareness-week
https://www.marchofdimes.org/news/november-is-prematurity-awareness-month.aspx
