The Southeast Diabetes Faith Initiative

10/18/2026

Menopause Awareness Month reminds us to speak up about changes in your health. For women of color, a useful conversation can include personal symptoms, cultural preferences, and what support feels right.

Before an appointment, write down changes in your periods, sleep, mood, and hot flashes. Bring your medication list and questions. Ask, “Could this be related to perimenopause?” and “What options are appropriate for me?”

Menopause is generally confirmed after 12 months without a period when there is no other cause. Symptoms can begin earlier, during perimenopause. Learn more: https://womenshealth.gov/menopause/menopause-basics

10/17/2026

This Substance Use Prevention Month, share resources with communities of color in a way that respects language & culture. 🌎 Need help? Call SAMHSA's National Helpline 24/7: 800-662-HELP (4357) for free, confidential treatment referrals. 💕

10/15/2026

October 15 is Global Handwashing Day! Clean hands help reduce the spread of germs that cause respiratory and diarrheal illnesses.

For families in communities of color, prevention messages should be useful, easy to understand, and available in preferred languages. Share this simple routine: wet, lather, scrub for at least 20 seconds, rinse, and dry. Remember the backs of your hands, between fingers, and under nails.

Wash before eating or preparing food and after using the bathroom. Help a child practice today—and keep the habit going all year.

Learn more: https://www.cdc.gov/clean-hands/about/index.html

Share information about the importance of handwashing

10/13/2026

October is National Depression and Mental Health Screening Month. Depression can involve persistent sadness, loss of interest, changes in sleep or appetite, and difficulty concentrating.

In communities of color, stigma, discrimination, and barriers to culturally responsive care can make asking for help harder. You deserve support that respects your experiences.

If symptoms persist or interfere with daily life, talk with a healthcare professional. Faith, family, and community support can be part of your support system alongside professional care. Depression is treatable.

Learn more: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression

10/11/2026

Global Handwashing Day on October 15 is also a chance to check that people have the supplies they need. For organizations serving communities of color, a practical action is to keep handwashing areas stocked, accessible, and clearly marked in the languages people use.

Churches, schools, food pantries, and community centers can check for soap, running water, and a way to dry hands. Pair supplies with a short demonstration for children and adults. Turn awareness into access: choose one place where your organization can improve handwashing today.

Learn more: https://globalhandwashing.org/global-handwashing-day/

a global advocacy day dedicated to increasing awareness and understanding about the importance of handwashing with soap as an effective and affordable way to prevent diseases and save lives. Global Handwashing Day is an opportunity to design, test, and replicate creative ways to encourage people to....

10/09/2026

October is National ADHD Awareness Month. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can affect attention, organization, and impulse control. Children deserve a careful evaluation when these challenges affect daily life.

Research has documented gaps in ADHD diagnosis and treatment for Black and Latino children. Calling a child “lazy” or “bad” can close the door to a useful conversation about support. If concerns continue at home or school, talk with a healthcare professional and share specific examples. Ask about a thorough evaluation and next steps.

Learn more: https://www.cdc.gov/adhd/about/index.html

10/08/2026

A mammogram should not feel out of reach. During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, help women in communities of color connect with screening resources and follow-up care.

CDC’s National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program helps eligible women with low incomes who are uninsured or underinsured access screening and diagnostic services. Eligibility varies by location.
Ask your local health department about available programs, language assistance, and help arranging appointments. If a screening result needs follow-up, ask what happens next and who can help you navigate care.
Learn more: https://www.cdc.gov/breast-cervical-cancer-screening/about/index.html

The program has helped millions of women get breast and cervical cancer screening tests.

10/07/2026

October is Health Literacy Month. Everyone deserves health information they can find, understand, and use. For communities of color, information that respects language and cultural preferences can make care easier to navigate.

At your next appointment, ask: What does this mean for me? What should I do next? When should I follow up? Request plain-language explanations and written instructions. Repeat the plan in your own words to check your understanding.
Clear communication is a shared responsibility. Your questions matter.

Learn more: https://www.cdc.gov/health-literacy/php/about/understanding.html

10/06/2026

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The American Cancer Society reports that Black women have a 38% higher breast cancer death rate than White women, despite slightly lower rates of diagnosis. Access to timely screening, follow-up, and quality treatment matters.

Talk with your healthcare provider about your family history and a screening plan that fits your age and risk. If you notice a new breast change, seek care—even if your last mammogram was normal. Share this reminder with someone you love.

Learn more: https://www.cancer.org/research/cancer-facts-statistics/cancer-facts-figures-for-african-americans.html

The American Cancer Society’s Cancer Facts & Figures for African American/Black People publication includes latest statistics & cancer research facts. Download the PDF now.

10/04/2026

This Menopause Awareness Month, support women of color by listening to their experiences & offering help when needed. A cooler space, a break, or flexibility can make a big difference. Learn more: https://womenshealth.gov/menopause