What is International Nystagmus Awareness Day?

International Nystagmus Awareness Day is held every year on June 20 and is observed worldwide. The day brings attention to nystagmus, a visual condition that causes involuntary eye movements and can affect depth perception, balance, and reading ability. It highlights the importance of early diagnosis, better support, and greater understanding.

The condition affects both children and adults and is often misunderstood. International Nystagmus Awareness Day creates space for visibility, education, and practical change. It invites people to listen, learn, and show support for those who live with nystagmus every day.

In the Netherlands, the day is recognised by patient organisations and eye health professionals. Awareness posts, blog stories, and accessible education materials are shared online and in clinics.

History and Origin

International Nystagmus Awareness Day was founded by the Nystagmus Network, a UK-based organisation supporting people with nystagmus. The first observance was introduced to raise public understanding and promote connection within the community.

The goal was to reduce the stigma surrounding the condition and to build better systems of support in schools, workplaces, and healthcare settings. Since its creation, the day has gained support in many countries and is now recognised in clinics, classrooms, and research centres worldwide.

Each year, the day focuses on raising public visibility, sharing lived experiences, and encouraging action from educators, researchers, and policy makers.

Who participates in International Nystagmus Awareness Day?

• Eye care professionals: Share insights on diagnosis, treatment options, and daily management strategies.
• Schools and teachers: Adjust classrooms to better support students with visual challenges.
• Patient organisations: Organise events, provide resources, and connect people affected by nystagmus.
• Families and individuals: Share stories and tips for navigating life with nystagmus.
• Researchers and academics: Promote studies focused on the condition and long-term care solutions.

Slogans and Themes

International Nystagmus Awareness Day uses themes of understanding, empowerment, and connection. Slogans include “Shining a Light on Nystagmus,” “See the Person, Not the Condition,” and “Awareness Leads to Acceptance.” The tone is often calm, clear, and focused on real-world change. The day invites people to look beyond the diagnosis and recognise the person behind it.

Colors, Symbols and Patterns

Colors

• Blue: Stands for vision, clarity, and calm focus.
• White: Represents openness, transparency, and access to knowledge.
• Light grey: Often used in design to reflect eye movement and subtle visual patterns.

Symbols

• Eye icon: Represents focus, awareness, and visibility.
• Ripple circle: Refers to the movement caused by nystagmus and its impact on daily life.
• Support hands: Emphasise connection, guidance, and community care.

Patterns

• Wavy lines: Symbolise eye motion and the fluctuating nature of vision.
• Connected dots: Reflect the network of people supporting each other.
• Soft spirals: Suggest motion, attention shifts, and layered visual experiences.

Most used hashtags

• #InternationalNystagmusAwarenessDay
• #NystagmusAwareness
• #ShiningALightOnNystagmus
• #SeeThePerson
• #NystagmusSupport

How do you celebrate International Nystagmus Awareness Day?

• Raise awareness: Share facts, experiences, or infographics on social media.
• Join an event: Attend a webinar, talk, or online session about living with nystagmus.
• Learn more: Read personal stories or visit websites offering accurate information.
• Support research: Donate to foundations that fund eye movement research and clinical trials.
• Connect with others: Reach out to someone with nystagmus or join a peer support group.

Why is International Nystagmus Awareness Day important?

International Nystagmus Awareness Day is important because it brings visibility to a condition that is often overlooked. Many people with nystagmus face challenges in school, work, and social life, yet public understanding is limited. This day offers a chance to change that.

It also promotes connection. People affected by nystagmus often feel isolated. By sharing knowledge and building networks, this day helps create a more inclusive world. It is a reminder that awareness creates understanding, and understanding leads to action.