May National Health Observances: Physical Fitness, Mental Health, Older Adults, and More

Each month we highlight select National Health Observances (NHOs) that align with our priorities for improving health in the United States. In May, we are raising awareness about physical fitness, older adults, mental health, women’s health, and HIV awareness.

We’ve listed some resources below that you can use to join the conversation and help us advocate for better health nationwide!

National Physical Fitness and Sports Month
During the month of May, the Office on Disease Prevention and Health Promotion celebrates National Physical Fitness and Sports Month to raise awareness about the benefits of physical activity. Encourage people to get active using our Move Your Way® resources and interactive Move Your Way Activity Planner. It’s also a great time to support youth sports participation using the National Youth Sports Strategy. Don’t forget to check out these Healthy People 2030 physical activity evidence-based resources you can implement in your community. Lastly, share our list of MyHealthfinder tips to help people live healthier lives through increased physical activity.
Older Americans Month
Every May, the Administration for Community Living (ACL) celebrates Older Americans Month. This month’s theme is Aging Unbound, which explores the diverse aging experience and how communities can combat older adult stereotypes. Join the conversation by sharing our MyHealthfinder resources for older adults on general health, safety, getting vaccines, and oral health. You can also encourage older adults to stay active using these Move Your Way campaign materials. Lastly, learn about the Healthy People 2030 objectives to improve health and well-being for older adults.
Mental Health Awareness Month
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) sponsors Mental Health Awareness Month in May to inform people about the importance of mental health across the nation. Make sure to share SAMHSA’s 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline to those who need mental health-related crisis support. Healthy People 2030 also has a list of evidence-based resources you can share with your networks to help develop mental health programs or policies. You can also share these MyHealthfinder resources on mental health and relationships.
National Women’s Health Week (5/14 – 5/20)
The Office on Women’s Health (OWH) celebrates National Women’s Health Week from May 14 to 20 as an opportunity to encourage women and girls to prioritize their health and well-being. Be sure to share our MyHealthfinder resources on women’s health like getting an annual well-woman visit, how to manage stress, and getting regular physical activity. You can also share this Dietary Guidelines fact sheet to encourage pregnant or postpartum women to build a healthy eating routine. Don’t’ forget to also explore Healthy People 2030 objectives focused on improving women’s health.
National Asian Pacific Islander HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (5/19)
On May 19, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) celebrates National Asian and Pacific Islander HIV/AIDS Awareness Day – a time to reduce HIV stigma in Asian and Pacific Islander communities. Join the conversation online by sharing CDC’s social media toolkit and using the hashtags #NAPIHAAD #APIMAY19. MyHealthfinder also has resources you can share that touch on HIV testing and questions to ask the doctor about HIV testing. Lastly, check out the Healthy People 2030 national objectives to improve access to quality STI care including HIV/AIDS.