October is a significant month for mental health awareness, including several important
observances that highlight emotional well-being, community support, and healing. At Skyway
Behavioral Health, we honor these observances by sharing resources, awareness, and
encouraging everyone to prioritize mental health, not just in October, but every day of the year.
By learning about observances throughout the year, we raise awareness about early signs of
mental health challenges, reduce stigma, and take actionable steps to support ourselves and those
around us.
Month-Long Observances in October
Domestic Violence Awareness Month
During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, victim advocates, survivors, families, and communities come together to raise awareness about the impact of domestic violence. By connecting with others committed to creating change, we strengthen both safety and emotional well-being for survivors and their loved ones.
Why it matters: Domestic violence impacts mental, emotional, and physical health. Awareness encourages early intervention, reporting, and access to therapy.
Ways to Support and Raise Awareness:
- Learn about warning signs such as controlling behaviors, isolation, or physical harm.
- Offer support to survivors by listening without judgment and connecting them with resources.
Resources for Immediate Help:
National Domestic Violence Hotline: Call 1-800-799-7233 or text “START” to 88788. This 24/7, multilingual, confidential service offers crisis safety planning and referrals to emergency housing and support services.
Chicagoland Domestic Violence Help Line: Call1-877-863-6338 (Chicago area only) For more information on domestic violence, visit the Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence’s website or call 217-789-2830.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Breast Cancer Awareness Month focuses on education, early detection, and support for individuals and families affected by breast cancer. This month also highlights the importance of understanding breast cancer health and early detection methods and serves as a reminder for self-checks and regular mammograms.
Why it matters: Early cancer detection saves lives and addressing mental health needs during treatment improves well-being.
Tips & Ways to Support:
- Schedule screenings or mammograms if eligible.
- Provide emotional support for loved ones undergoing treatment.
- Participate in awareness campaigns or fundraising events.
- Donate to fundraising initiatives for organizations like American Cancer Society & NBCF to support breast cancer research
For more information on Breast Cancer Awareness visit the National Breast Cancer Awareness Foundation’s https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/
ADHD Awareness Month
Dedicated to raising awareness, reducing stigma, and educating the public about attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), October is also honoring this diagnosis that is typically given to children, but becoming more prevalent in adults with over 8% over their lifetimes. It is important to understand ADHD Facts vs. myths that may be more harmful than helpful.
Why it matters: ADHD can affect daily functioning, relationships, and mental health. Awareness promotes early recognition and implementation of supportive strategies. Community support is also important as it creates a safe space for people to connect and support each other.
Tips & Ways to Support:
- Educate yourself about ADHD symptoms and treatment options.
- This is an opportunity to share accurate information about ADHD’s impact and to promote understanding of its complexities beyond common stereotypes
- Encourage inclusive strategies in schools, workplaces, and homes
LGBTQ+ History / Heritage Month
October also honors LGBTQ+, history, contributions and ongoing advocacy for equality and inclusion. This month is an opportunity to raise awareness and provide a space for people to learn about the history of LGBTQ+ rights and how it all started.
Why it matters: Safe, affirming spaces improve mental health and foster belonging, helping reduce stigma and isolation. Knowing the history of marginalized communities supports the work to actively improve for future generations.
How to Support:
- Attend LGBTQ+ events and educational sessions.
- Promote inclusive policies and environments.
- Skyway Behavioral Health provides LGBTQ+ affirming care for clients navigating identity and mental health challenges.
Key Awareness Days / Weeks in October
October 5–11 – Mental Illness Awareness Week
This week focuses on raising awareness about mental illnesses such as depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, PTSD, and more. It emphasizes education, early recognition, and reducing stigma.
Why it matters: Mental health challenges often go unnoticed. Early support and intervention can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life.
Ways to Support:
- Be aware of subtle signs like mood changes, irritability, social withdrawal, or difficulty functioning daily.
- Share resources and educational materials with friends, family, and coworkers.
- Connect with mental health professionals, take a free Skyway Behavioral Health screening, attend therapy, and seek support.
Resources: For more information about Mental Illness Awareness Week, and to find ways to support visit National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) Website, https://www.nami.org/
October 12–18 – OCD Awareness Week
This week is dedicated to raising awareness about obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), educating the public, and promoting understanding and support of OCD for those affected.
Why it matters: OCD is often misunderstood, leading to stigma and delayed treatment. Awareness helps individuals recognize symptoms, seek help, and improve daily functioning and mental well-being.
Ways to Raise Awareness:
- Learn the signs of OCD, including intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that interfere with daily life.
- Share accurate information about OCD to reduce stigma and promote empathy.
- Encourage individuals experiencing symptoms to seek professional support.
Participate in virtual events, campaigns, or support groups to build community understanding.
October 10 – World Mental Health
A global day dedicated to mental health advocacy and awareness, World Mental Health Day is about shining a light on mental health, breaking the stigma, and supporting one another. Raising awareness starts with small, everyday actions. At Skyway, we believe awareness creates pathways to healing. Together, we can build a community where compassion and support come first.
Why it matters: Raises awareness of mental health’s importance and encourages help-seeking without stigma.
Tips & Resources:
- Participate in educational webinars or local events.
- Lead and initiate conversations about mental wellness at work, school, or home.
- Seek professional support if you experience any mental health issues.
- Share your story or listen to someone else’s.
- Educate yourself and others on mental health conditions.
Use language that reduces stigma and promotes understanding.
October 11 – National Coming Out Day
Celebrates LGBTQ+ individuals and highlights the importance of safe, supportive environments for all within the community. Through education, support, and sharing of stories, the goal is to help individuals live more openly, safely, and authentically.
Why it matters: Visibility and acceptance reduce isolation, improve mental health, and strengthen community connection.
Ways to Support:
- Support others by sharing affirming messages and resources.
- Educate yourself on local LGBTQ+ mental health challenges.
- Utilize resources like Skyway Behavioral Health that provide affirming care for individuals navigating identity or related mental health concerns.
We offer a dedicated weekly LGBTQIA+ Breakout Group where clients come together to explore identity, community, and lived experiences within the safety of their community.
October 22– Unity Day (Anti-Bullying)
October 22 is a day to wear orange, raise awareness about bullying, and promote kindness and inclusion. It is a message for bullying prevention and a reminder that bullying is unacceptable.
Why it matters: Bullying negatively impacts mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem of its victims, no matter the age. Awareness provides empathy and safer communities.
Tips & Resources:
- Support anti-bullying programs in schools or workplaces.
- Check in with students, children, or peers who may be affected.
- Model kindness and inclusion in daily interactions.
- For more information on bullying prevention please visit: https://www.stopbullying.gov/
October 29 – International Day of Care and Support
Support
Recognizes the importance of caregiving, compassion, and community support.
Why it matters: Acts of care and support strengthen communities, improve well-being, and reduce isolation.
Tips & Resources:
- Volunteer or provide support to caregivers and community members.
- Express gratitude to those who provide care.
- Explore options like Skyway Behavioral Health that offers programs that promote emotional support and coping skills for caregivers and clients alike.
How You Can Support This Month
- Always be willing to learn more and share knowledge about each observance.
- Attend local or virtual events to raise awareness and promote inclusion.
- Offer emotional support to those in your community who may be struggling.
Why Awareness Matters
Awareness encourages early recognition of mental health challenges, reduces stigma, and strengthens community well-being. By participating in these observances, we promote healing, inclusivity, and support for all individuals.
If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health, trauma, ADHD, or receiving affirming care, Skyway Behavioral Health provides compassionate, individualized support.
Contact us today to schedule an assessment or learn more about our programs.
