Ava McDonnell
September is more than just the beginning of fall — it’s a month rich with purpose, filled with opportunities to recognize, learn about, and support a wide range of important health, social, and community causes.
From mental health to cancer awareness to honoring our frontline heroes, September brings vital issues to the forefront that impact individuals, families, and entire communities.
Here’s a look at the major awareness observances in September and why they matter.
Mental Health Awareness
While October is often recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month in some places, Suicide Prevention Awareness Month is specifically honored in September. It’s a time to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and promote open conversations about mental well-being and suicide prevention.
Key Date: World Suicide Prevention Day – September 10
Support: Learn the warning signs, offer support, and share crisis resources like the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
Every year, thousands of children are diagnosed with cancer. September’s gold ribbon campaign brings awareness to their fight and emphasizes the need for more research, funding, and family support.
Symbol: Gold Ribbon
Support: Donate to pediatric cancer research, volunteer, or support affected families.
Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness
September is globally recognized as World Alzheimer’s Month, a campaign to raise awareness and challenge the stigma surrounding Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
Key Date: World Alzheimer’s Day – September 21
Support: Educate yourself on early signs, support caregivers, and advocate for better research funding.
National Recovery Month
This observance promotes awareness of substance use recovery, celebrates those who are on a recovery journey, and recognizes the contributions of treatment providers and support systems.
Theme (varies by year): Often centered around hope, healing, and community support
Support: Share recovery stories, reduce stigma, and connect individuals with treatment resources.
Blood Cancer Awareness Month
This month highlights the impact of blood cancers such as leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. It encourages blood and marrow donations and boosts support for ongoing research.
Support: Register as a bone marrow donor, support the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, or donate blood.
National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month
Childhood obesity affects millions of children and adolescents, increasing the risk for chronic health issues. This month focuses on healthy lifestyle habits, nutrition, and physical activity.
Support: Encourage balanced diets, promote outdoor activities, and support educational programs in schools.
Deaf Awareness Month (International Week of the Deaf)
September celebrates the culture, language, and contributions of the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community, while also raising awareness of the challenges they face.
Key Week: International Week of the Deaf – Last full week of September
Support: Learn basic sign language, support inclusive communication, and amplify Deaf voices.
Hispanic Heritage Month (Begins September 15 – October 15)
Though it spans into October, Hispanic Heritage Month kicks off in mid-September, honoring the culture, achievements, and contributions of Hispanic and Latinx Americans.
Support: Attend cultural events, support Latinx-owned businesses, and learn about influential Hispanic figures in history.
Other Observances You Might See in September
Pain Awareness Month: Advocating for individuals with chronic pain
Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month: Encouraging early detection and research
Prostate Cancer Awareness Month: Promoting men’s health and screenings
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Awareness Month: Raising awareness of a common hormonal disorder among women
National Sickle Cell Awareness Month: Supporting those living with sickle cell disease
How You Can Get Involved
Wear awareness colors and share info on social media
Donate to trusted organizations or fundraisers
Participate in local events, runs, or walks
Educate yourself and others
Being kind and checking in with others can go a long way
Awareness months are more than hashtags and colored ribbons; they serve as platforms for education, empathy, and action. They remind us to pay attention to what others might be silently struggling with and give us the tools to be part of the solution, even in small ways.
September brings change in the air, and it’s the perfect time to start conversations that matter. Whether it’s supporting a loved one, learning something new, or taking action for a cause close to your heart — awareness is the first step toward progress.
Let’s make this month meaningful.
Comments