International ME Awareness Day is observed each year on May 12 to raise global awareness of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), also known as chronic fatigue syndrome. It honours the birthday of Florence Nightingale and offers a platform for recognition, support, and advocacy for a condition that affects millions yet remains under-researched and misunderstood.
What is International ME Awareness Day?
This day highlights the complex, debilitating neurological illness known as ME/CFS, characterised by profound and persistent fatigue, brain fog, muscle pain, unrefreshing sleep, and cognitive issues. It also draws attention to other chronic immunological and neurological diseases (CIND) such as fibromyalgia and multiple chemical sensitivity. The goal is to increase public understanding, promote accurate diagnosis, and demand better support and treatment options.
When is International ME Awareness Day?
It takes place annually on May 12, coinciding with the birth date of Florence Nightingale—a pioneer whose late-life illness mirrored ME/CFS symptoms. This date also anchors ME Awareness Week (often observed May 12–18) and has evolved into part of a wider movement known as World ME Day since 2022.
Why International ME Awareness Day Matters
ME/CFS affects an estimated 17 million people worldwide and around 250,000 in the UK. Despite its prevalence, ME remains largely underfunded in research and frequently misdiagnosed as depression or psychosomatic disorders. Patients often struggle for validation, access to care, and social understanding.
Awareness Day helps to:
- Challenge misconceptions and stigma.
- Encourage timely and accurate diagnosis.
- Push for increased research and better clinical guidelines.
- Highlight the chronic and life-altering nature of ME.
How to Get Involved in International ME Awareness Day
- Wear blue: The official colour for ME awareness—sport a ribbon or garment to show solidarity.
- Share your story: Patients, families, and carers can post experiences or reflections online using hashtags like #WorldMEDay or #MillionsMissing.
- Organize or attend events: Join webinars, school talks, virtual panels, or community gatherings that explore ME challenges and solutions.
- Donate or fundraise: Support organisations focused on biomedical research, patient support, and advocacy initiatives.
- Push for policy change: Write to policymakers or petition for official recognition of ME/CFS in healthcare systems and funding agencies.
- Illuminate landmarks: Advocate for civic buildings to light up in blue—like those in the UK’s Home Nations did in recent years—to naturally draw attention to the cause.
History of International ME Awareness Day
First launched in 1992 by advocate Tom Hennessy, this day has grown into an internationally recognised observance. Over time, it expanded to include ME Awareness Week in May and, in 2022, the World ME Day initiative brought together global advocacy under a common banner.
The choice of May 12 honours Florence Nightingale’s birthday and links history, compassion, and advocacy in one unified campaign. Health agencies like the CDC in the US formally recognised the day in 2006—reflecting growing global attention to the condition.
Noteworthy Facts About International ME Awareness Day
- The day coincides with the birthday of Florence Nightingale, who experienced symptoms similar to ME.
- ME Awareness Week, typically May 12–18, features national and global events focused on awareness and advocacy.
- In 2022, World ME Day was introduced to unite global efforts under one name and voice.
- Landmarks across the UK have been lit in blue—London, Edinburgh, Belfast, Cardiff—to raise visibility.
- The campaign also highlights other chronic immunological and neurological diseases, under the International CIND umbrella.
Hashtags
#InternationalMEDay, #WorldMEDay, #MillionsMissing, #MEAwareness, #CIND
Links
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