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Fibromyalgia Education and Awareness Month

Join us this Fibromyalgia Education and Awareness Month to learn more about this chronic condition, support those affected, and spread awareness for better understanding.

Saturday

1–31

May 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEAll of May

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYHealth Conditions

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to learn and spread awareness about a condition that affects millions of people worldwide – it's Fibromyalgia Education and Awareness Month! Every May 1, individuals and organizations come together to educate others about this chronic pain disorder, as well as raise funds for research and support services. Did you know that fibromyalgia affects mostly women, but can also occur in men and children? Despite its prevalence, many are still unaware of the symptoms and impact of this condition. So let's use this month to not only educate ourselves but also spread compassion and understanding towards those who may be suffering from fibromyalgia.

TIMELINE

Fibromyalgia Education and Awareness Month Timeline

First Documented Symptoms

William Balfour, a surgeon at the University of Edinburgh, describes the symptoms of what we now know as fibromyalgia.

Term 'Fibromyalgia' Coined

The term "fibromyalgia" is first used by P.K. Hench to describe chronic, widespread pain and tender points on the body.

Fibromyalgia Diagnostic Criteria

The American College of Rheumatology establishes official diagnostic criteria for fibromyalgia, aiding in diagnosis and clinical studies.

First FDA-Approved Treatment

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approves Lyrica for the treatment of fibromyalgia, the first medication approved specifically for the condition.

Second Edition Diagnostic Criteria

The American College of Rheumatology publishes the second edition of the fibromyalgia diagnostic criteria.

National Fibromyalgia Association

The National Fibromyalgia Association continues to empower and educate the fibromyalgia community, healthcare professionals, and the public about the disorder.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Fibromyalgia Education and Awareness Month

Host a fundraiser for fibromyalgia research

Organize a charity event or fundraiser to raise money and awareness for fibromyalgia. This could be anything from a bake sale to a 5K run, and all proceeds can go towards supporting research and education about the condition.

WEAR

Wear purple to show your support

Purple is the official color for fibromyalgia awareness, so encourage others to wear purple throughout the month to show their support and help spark conversations about the condition.

Share educational resources on social media

Spread awareness about fibromyalgia by sharing informative articles, videos, and infographics on your social media platforms. This will help educate others about the condition and its impact on those who live with it.

ORGANIZE

Organize a support group meeting

Connect with others who have fibromyalgia by organizing a support group meeting in your community. This will provide a safe and understanding space for individuals to share their experiences and support one another.

ATTEND

Attend a fibromyalgia awareness event

Look for local events or conferences dedicated to fibromyalgia education and awareness and attend them to learn more about the condition and connect with others in the community.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Fibromyalgia Education and Awareness Month is Important

Advocating for research and treatment

By raising awareness and education during this month, we also hope to encourage more research and funding for fibromyalgia treatments. There is still much to be learned about this condition, and by advocating for more resources, we can work towards finding better treatment options and ultimately improving the lives of those affected.

Spreading awareness and understanding

Fibromyalgia Education and Awareness Month is an important time for spreading knowledge and understanding about this chronic pain disorder. Many people are still unaware of what fibromyalgia is, which can lead to judgment and misunderstanding towards those who suffer from it. By educating others, we can help break down these barriers and create a more supportive environment.

Encouraging self-care and support

During this month, there is a focus on promoting self-care practices for those living with fibromyalgia. This includes things like exercise, relaxation techniques, and healthy eating habits. It also reminds us of the importance of providing support and understanding to our loved ones who may be struggling with this condition.

Related holidays

WED

May 2026

Awareness

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Pain Awareness Month

Make your voice heard during Pain Awareness Month - join us to raise awareness and support for those affected by chronic pain!

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