Don’t be silent: Speak up about pain this September

https://uspainfoundation.org/news/dont-be-silent-speak-up-about-pain-this-september/

Too often, due to broad misconceptions and a lack of understanding about pain, pain warriors are afraid or ashamed to speak up about their stories.

But the only way we can create change is if we start talking–to loved ones, coworkers, neighbors, clinicians, and even policymakers.

That’s why our theme for Pain Awareness Month 2019, which begins September 1, is “Let’s Talk about Pain.” We’ll be hosting numerous events, campaigns, and activities that center around this idea. In order to truly get the word out, though, we need your help.

How you can participate

Below, please find a short list of ways you can participate right now in Pain Awareness Month. Many of these campaigns require involvement before September, so don’t wait!

Submit your video story! Share a 3-5 minute video about your pain journey with us by August 9. All participants will receive a limited-edition Pain Awareness Month bracelet and our new Living with Pain educational booklet–AND be entered to win a prize pack. A handful of individuals will be selected to have their videos featured online throughout September! Get started here. Questions? Email us.

 

Request a proclamation. Ceremonial proclamations from state and local representatives help bring awareness to pain at the government level. To get started, fill out this form by August 9. We have easy-to-use templates and tips to make the process easy and fun. Please note that proclamations can take time, so put in your request now! For questions, email us.

 

Host an information table. Hosting an information table at a local hospital, library, town hall, or even a retail store is a great way to educate your community about pain. We’ll provide all the materials you need, including table cloths, brochures, and giveaway items. Simply fill out the questionnaire here. Keep in mind we need two weeks’ notice to ship materials!

 

Shine Blue for Pain. Through this campaign, you can request a government, historic, or private building or landmark light up in blue–the designated color for pain–on September 13. To get involved, fill out this form or send us an email by August 15. We’ll give you all the tools you need to make your request. Be sure to take a photo so we can celebrate your hard work!

 

Organize a Wear Blue Day. New this year, we’re encouraging people with pain to host Wear Blue Days at their schools or workplaces! By rallying together and wearing the designated color for pain, people with pain can feel included and supported. And, it helps raise awareness about the issue of pain on a large scale. For information on how to get involved, send us an email.

 

Help Beautify in Blue. Through this visual campaign, volunteers display blue ribbons and flyers in public locations such as town halls, community centers, libraries, municipal parks, or grassy areas. We provide a template letter to request permission to display the materials, as well as the materials you need (at no cost to you). Get started here.

Let’s make it the biggest year yet

To learn more about all Pain Awareness Month 2019 activities, visit our website. And remember to keep an eye out for more details about our social media challenge and weekly events.

If you have any questions about getting involved, please email us at painawareness@uspainfoundation.org.

 

Filed under: General Problems