May Sparks for Arthritis, Mental Health, Moms & More

May brings sparks for moms, arthritis, mental health and a host of other worthy health, education and social causes. We can celebrate many of these holidays and campaigns in person once again this year as we return to the “new” normal. The world has become masters of digital and so will the festivities as many will offer go to a hybrid format.

NATIONAL ARTHRITIS AWARENESS MONTH – Over 58 million Americans (one in every four adults) and 300,000 children have arthritis. It is the number one cause of disability in America. May is designated as the time to spread awareness about the disease, to educate the public, get people moving through exercise and raise funds for a cure.

The Arthritis Foundation has taken colossal steps to conquer this crippling disease for more than seven decades. Their signature event is “Walk to Cure Arthritis” — the largest arthritis gathering in the world. The event celebrates the arthritis warriors, raises funds for research, resources and a cure. Registration is underway across the country for this year’s event “Rock The Walk.” To learn more visit the Arthritis Foundation website www.arthritis.org.

MENTAL HEALTH MONTH — Each year millions of Americans face the reality of living with a mental health condition. One in five Americans will be affected by a mental health condition in their lifetime and every American is affected or impacted through their friends and family. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) reiterates that now more than ever before, it is important for the mental health community to come together and show the world that no one should ever feel alone.

For 2022’s Mental Health Awareness Month, NAMI will amplify the message of “Together for Mental Health” to bring our voices together to advocate for mental health and access to care.

NURSES MONTH – The American Nursing Association (ANA) selected the evergreen theme, Nurses Make a Difference to honor the varying roles of nurses and their positive impact on our lives.

A month-long celebration of the nursing profession allows for greater opportunities to promote understanding and appreciation of the invaluable contributions of nurses. The month will be divided into four weekly focus areas — Self-Care, Recognition, Professional Development, and Community Engagement.

Self-Care: May 1-7

Recognition: May 8-14

Professional Development: May 15-21

Community Engagement: May 22-31

NATIONAL BIKE MONTH. May kick starts the official start to outdoor activities and biking is a favorite for many. National Bike Month was established in 1956 as a way to celebrate the many benefits of riding.

May 2022 brings the return of LIVE events to celebrate ways to #BikeThere during National Bike Month and National Ride A Bike Day on May 1, 2022. The League of American Bicyclists with a focus on individual and community wellbeing, will be highlighting how you can #BikeThere during Bike Month. There are so many ways to celebrate like biking to coffee or around the block, bike to work and more. Whether you’re riding for fun, fitness or with family, or taking essential trips to work or shop, you are part of our movement for safer streets, connected communities, a healthier planet, and happier people.

DATES TO KNOW:

Bike To Work Week: May 16-22

Bike to Work Day: Friday, May 20

May 1st – School Principle Appreciation Day

May 3th – National Teacher Appreciation Day

May 5th – Cinco De Mayo

May 6th – National Nurses Day

May 7th – Kentucky Derby

May 8th – Mother’s Day

May 20th – World Autoimmune Day

May 28th – Memorial Day

Whatever your passion, May sparks sizzle for awareness initiatives and celebratory events. Virtual events are more frequently becoming a thing of the past and LIVE events to raise awareness are back in 2022 guaranteed to get you Socially Sparked®! A special shout out to moms, who have Socially Sparked our lives and continue to do so in countless ways. — We are Forever #SociallySparked! — Tweet us @sosparkednews