October is the time to celebrate candy, scares, and awareness. While this month usually focuses on well-known movements such as Breast Cancer Awareness, we would like to take some time to highlight some equally worthwhile, though less prevalent, movements. As we don our costumes and goody bags, let us also take the time to educate ourselves and others about some of the major awareness movements and healthcare holidays happening in October.

Month-Long Movements

Domestic Violence Awareness Month: Nearly every 1 in 2 women and 1 in 4 men have been victims of severe physical violence by an intimate partner in their lifetime. Beyond the physical and direct trauma that effects the health of victims of domestic violence, there are additional dangers that can come with the increased stress and trauma for long periods of time. These include severe mental health effects, such as development of depression and suicidal thoughts.

The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV) does as amazing job pulling together the information and resources to combat domestic violence, but the information means nothing if we do not take the time to read it. Check out their website here and get involved where you can!

National Down Syndrome Awareness Month: This is a wonderful movement for celebration and support! The National Down Syndrome Society advocates for erasing stereotypes and barriers that prevent people with down syndrome from living normal and unrestricted lives. Their website is full of medical information and personal stories of down syndrome ambassadors, so take some time to read up and see how you can get involved!

Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month: Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) can strike people of any health or age at any time. It effects over 1,000 people outside of hospital in the Unites States every day and, on average, only 10% of those people will survive. The SCA Foundation takes time in October to push for people to learn CPR/AED, as that raises the chance for survival from 10% to 50%.

Take some time to read over some SCA facts and get involved by signing up for a CPR course or donating today!

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome Awareness Month: “SIDS is the sudden death of an infant less than 1 year old that cannot be explained after a thorough investigation that includes a complete autopsy, examination of the death scene, and a review of the medical history,” according to the International Childbirth Education Association (ICEA).

Because of the nature of a SIDS diagnosis, there is no immediate treatment or solutions to it. The best way to combat SIDS is with increased education for new parents and caretakers. Check out the ICEA website to learn more!

Week-Long Movements

National PA Week (Oct 6-12): Physician Assistant Week kicked off yesterday! This week is meant to celebrate the hard work and dedication PAs put in every single day. The AAPA has some great reading materials, from personal stories to career advice, and, this year, is offering a prizes for 6 people who write to them about what it means to be a PA. Check it out here if you are interested in hearing more!

National Healthcare Quality Week (Oct 17-23): The National Association for Healthcare Quality (NAHQ) takes this week to raise awareness and celebrate the efforts of Healthcare Quality Professionals. This year is filled with virtual events, several of which are complementary, so be sure to take a look and join in on the festivities.

Respiratory Care Week (October 24-30): This week focuses on the work of Respiratory Therapists. While their work has always been vital, COVID brought them to the front lines like never before. Take some time to appreciate the RTs in your life and check out some other ways to get involved with the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC).

Single Day Movements

National Depression Screening Day (October 7th): Screening for depression is a huge step in the right direction for destigmatizing and normalizing the diagnosis and treatment of mental health afflictions. There are multiple groups that screen for depression for free with complete confidentiality, such as Mental Health America (MHA), so be sure to take time and reach out if you think you or others around you might need help.

Global Handwashing Day (October 15th): This day focuses on teaching people the importance of proper handwashing with soap. Groups like the Planet Water Foundation have made great strides across the world to provide clean water and proper handwashing supplies to areas that do not have that guaranteed. If you want to find out how to get involved with simple and effective efforts like this, check out their website here!

World Hypophosphatasia Day (October 30th): Hypophosphatasia (HPP) is a rare genetic metabolic disease that effects the growth and maintenance of bones. Because of its rarity and the fact that there are over 405 known variations, diagnosis can be difficult. To learn how to support the community and get yourself tested, check out the SoftBones website here!

These are only a small amount of the amazing awareness efforts happening this month, so let us know where you plan to get involved! If you are interested in getting involved as a provider, be sure to take a look at our job board and apply to opportunities you are interested in! If you are looking for something different but are not sure what, then send us in an updated resume and we will have a recruiter reach out to chat with you directly as soon as possible.