World Down Syndrome Day

Medically reviewed by Paige Henry, LMSW, J.D.
Updated October 8, 2024by BetterHelp Editorial Team

World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) occurs on March 21st each year and is an officially observed day founded by the United Nations. World Down Syndrome Day aims to bring awareness to Down syndrome and the children and adults who experience it. 

Getty/AnnaStills

Celebrating World Down Syndrome Day

The first observance of World Down Syndrome Day was March 21st, 2006, by Down Syndrome International (DSI). In 2011, it was declared an international day by the United Nations General Assembly. You may be wondering "What is World Down Syndrome Day?" It aims to bring awareness to those with Down syndrome and their struggles, triumphs, and unique experiences. 

In 2024, the event theme for the day will be “End The Stereotypes.” It calls for organizations, individuals, and non-profits around the world to unite with those with Down syndrome and recognize that these individuals are all unique and that their identity is more than just their condition. 

What is Down syndrome?

Down syndrome is a human condition caused by an extra chromosome that develops during pregnancy. The UN states it occurs in around 3,000 to 5,000 births per year. Those born with this Down syndrome often have facial and bodily differences, such as wide-set upturned eyes and a flat nose. Babies that develop an extra chromosome receive the extra chromosome on chromosome 21, which causes Down syndrome. It can also be referred to as trisomy 21. 

How to celebrate and show support

iStock/Edwin Tan

Wear colorful socks to help raise awareness

The #LotsOfSocks campaign was developed to raise public awareness about Down syndrome. Each year on World Down Syndrome Day, the Lots Of Socks campaign encourages individuals to choose a bright and colorful pair of socks to wear about in a visible fashion. If someone asks about your socks, DSi suggests saying, “I’m wearing them to raise awareness of Down syndrome.”

Support an organization 

A few organizations provide support, financial aid, treatment options, and advocacy for adults and children with Down syndrome. For World Down Syndrome Day, consider donating to an organization, offering volunteer hours, or signing up to receive monthly email updates on current research.

Participate in an event for World Down Syndrome Day

Each year, there are different events. One such event is the World Down Syndrome Conference, which occurs in New York at the United Nations headquarters. In 2024, the conference will include speakers with Down syndrome and disabilities, advocates, UN officials, and NGO representatives. You can also find other events on the WDSD event page.

Getting involved with World Down Syndrome Day events

The WDSD website offers various ways for people to get involved on March 21. You can search the website to find organizations putting on events in your community, register your own event, and get ongoing information about the organization and their work.

Finding support and resources

There are a few options for adults diagnosed with Down syndrome who do not know how to reach out for support. If a doctor near you diagnosed you, ask them if they have resources for your symptoms. Depending on your needs, doctors might offer referrals to further treatment options like medication, therapy, or physical therapy. 

Organizations with online resources for managing symptoms and navigating life

Adults may find additional resources for Down syndrome at the following sites: 

Getty

Counseling options to support mental health

People experiencing Down syndrome and their families might also benefit from counseling. NDSS states that the most common mental health conditions in those with Down syndrome include anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), depression, and tics. These conditions may be benefited through the support of a licensed therapist. 

Additionally, counseling to support navigating Down syndrome can be done online and from home, which reduces barriers such as cost and can allow further availability for many. One recent study on internet-based treatment found that 71% of participants found it preferable to and more effective than in-person counseling.   

Takeaway

World Down Syndrome Day brings awareness to the condition and the individuals who experience it. The event often focuses on self-advocacy, disability rights, and support for those living with this developmental disability.

Also, if you are living with Down syndrome or know someone who is, it may help to reach out for support from a licensed counselor. If in-person therapy isn’t an option at this time, you might consider online therapy. With BetterHelp, you can be matched with someone who has knowledge of this condition and the way it affects both individuals with it and their families. Take the first step toward getting support and reach out to BetterHelp today. 


Learn how to cope with challenging events
The information on this page is not intended to be a substitution for diagnosis, treatment, or informed professional advice. You should not take any action or avoid taking any action without consulting with a qualified mental health professional. For more information, please read our terms of use.
Get the support you need from one of our therapistsGet started