National health observances in October: Health literacy, breast cancer, mental health

Editor's Note

October is a month of awareness for several causes, according to the US Department of Human Services (HHS) and the Mental Health Technology Transfer Center Network (MHTTC). Each month, the HHS highlights "National Health Observances" (NHOs), and October, it is raising awareness for health literacy, breast cancer, the benefits of youth sports, and HIV/AIDS in Latinx communities. Meanwhile, the MHTTC is bringing attention to Mental Illness Awareness Week and World Mental Health Day, among others.

Here's a breakdown with some resources, according to the above:

• Health Literacy Month. The HHS urges those interested to access the Healthy People 2030’s Health Literacy literature summary to find definitions of health literacy and browse evidence-based resources, as well as the research-based guidelines in Health Literacy Online to develop content based on health literacy best practices, among others.
   
• National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Every October, awareness is raised about the disease in order to encourage people to get tested, as early detection can be life-saving. Resources include learning more about getting tested for breast cancer and starting the conversation with a doctor.
   
• National Youth Sports Week. During the week of October 2–7, the positive impact of sports on young people’s physical and mental health is celebrated. Resources include the National Youth Sports Strategy (NYSS) and the Move Your Way® materials.
• Mental Illness Awareness Week. During October 2–8, the MHTTC will "elevate and unify the messages from Mental Health America and the National Association on Mental Illness." Resources can be found here.
• World Mental Health Day is on October 10. Learn more about World Mental Health Day from the World Federation of Mental Health.

• National Latinx AIDS Awareness Day is on October 15. The HHS shares resources on getting tested for HIV and helpful questions for the doctor about testing.