Stroke Awareness Month: Why It’s Important to Know the Signs

Every May, Stroke Awareness Month provides a vital reminder of why knowing the signs of a stroke can help save lives. With strokes affecting people of all ages, including younger adults, the campaign aims to educate people about the risks, symptoms, and the importance of acting fast.

For students in particular, being aware of stroke symptoms and knowing what to do in an emergency could make a huge difference in someone’s life.

What is a Stroke?

A stroke happens when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off, depriving brain cells of oxygen and nutrients.

This can occur due to a blocked artery (ischaemic stroke) or a burst blood vessel (haemorrhagic stroke). Without prompt treatment, brain cells can start to die within minutes, making strokes a medical emergency.

Strokes can lead to long-term disability, speech difficulties, memory loss, or even death. They are one of the leading causes of disability in the United Kingdom, with over 100,000 strokes happening every year.

While strokes are more common in older adults, they can affect anyone – including students and young adults – especially if there are risk factors like smoking, stress, poor diet, or family history involved.

Spotting the Signs of a Stroke: Think F.A.S.T

One of the most recognised ways to remember stroke symptoms is the F.A.S.T test:

F – Face

Has the person’s face fallen on one side? Can they smile? Does their mouth or eye droop?

A – Arms

Can the person raise both arms and keep them there, or is one arm weak or numb?

S – Speech

Is their speech slurred or garbled? Can they speak clearly and understand what you’re saying?

T – Time

If you see any of these signs, it’s time to call 999 immediately.

Other possible stroke symptoms include:

Sudden loss of vision or blurred vision in one or both eyes
Sudden confusion or difficulty understanding
Severe headache with no known cause
Sudden dizziness, loss of balance or coordination

Time is critical – the quicker a person gets medical help, the better their chances of recovery.

How to Help if You Think Someone is Having a Stroke

If you suspect someone is having a stroke:

Stay calm and call 999 immediately.
Give clear information to the emergency services about symptoms and when they started.
Keep the person comfortable and safe while waiting for help to arrive.
Do not give them food, drink, or medication unless advised by a medical professional.
Offer reassurance – strokes can be scary, and having a calm person nearby makes a huge difference.

Even if the symptoms go away quickly, known as a mini-stroke or Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA), medical attention is still essential. TIAs can be warning signs of a full stroke in the future.

Why Raising Stroke Awareness Matters

Stroke Awareness Month isn’t just about knowing the signs – it’s about changing lives through education and prevention. The more people who know how to spot a stroke, the more lives can potentially be saved or improved.

Statistics show that many people don’t recognise stroke symptoms straight away. Delays in treatment can result in more severe disability or even death.

For younger people, understanding risk factors is also crucial. Stress, smoking, drinking, poor diet, high blood pressure, and lack of exercise can all increase stroke risk – even in students.

By talking openly about strokes and sharing knowledge, we can help reduce stigma, encourage healthier lifestyles, and make sure people get help faster when it matters most.

How Students Can Get Involved in Stroke Awareness Month

There are many ways students can play an active role in Stroke Awareness Month this May. Here are some ideas:

Spread the Word on Social Media: Use your social media platforms to share the F.A.S.T. test and key facts about strokes. Raising awareness among friends and family could save a life.
Organise a Fundraiser: Support stroke charities like the Stroke Association by holding bake sales, charity runs, or quiz nights to raise funds for vital research and support services.
Host an Awareness Event: Work with your university or college to put on an information stand, guest talk, or workshop educating students about stroke signs and prevention.
Wear Purple: Purple is the colour of Stroke Awareness Month – wear purple clothing or accessories to show support and start conversations.
Learn First Aid: Many organisations offer first aid courses, including stroke awareness training. Consider learning these life-saving skills so you’re prepared if an emergency happens.

Final Thoughts

Stroke Awareness Month serves as an important reminder that strokes can happen to anyone, at any time. But with greater awareness, faster response, and better prevention, more lives can be saved, and more people can recover fully.

As students, knowing the F.A.S.T. signs, understanding the risks, and helping to spread awareness within your community is a powerful way to make a difference.

Remember: the quicker a stroke is recognised and treated, the greater the chances of survival and recovery. This May, take a moment to learn, share, and support Stroke Awareness Month – because knowledge really can save lives.