A serene room with soft natural lighting, featuring a compassionate death doula seated beside a peaceful elderly person in a cozy bed, surrounded by candles and flowers

National Death Doula Day is a day dedicated to recognizing the vital role that death doulas play in providing support and comfort to individuals at the end of life. A death doula, also known as an end-of-life doula, is a trained professional who offers non-medical assistance to the dying and their families, helping them navigate the emotional, spiritual, and logistical aspects of dying.

Quick Facts

  • When is it?: April 20
  • Tagged as: National Death Doula Day
  • What’s the hashtag?: #NationalDeathDoulaDay
  • When was it founded?: 2023
  • Who founded it?: The National End of Life Doula Alliance (NEDA)

History of National Death Doula Day

The establishment of National Death Doula Day marks a significant step in acknowledging the importance of death doulas in end-of-life care. This day aims to promote awareness about the profession and encourage open conversations about death and dying.

Timeline

  • 2023: National Death Doula Day is founded by NEDA.
  • 2024: First observance of National Death Doula Day.
  • 2025: Anticipated growth in public awareness and acceptance of death doulas.

Dates by Next Year

YearMonthDateDay
2025April20Sunday
2026April20Monday
2027April20Tuesday
2028April20Thursday
2029April20Friday

Observed

National Death Doula Day is observed annually on April 20, encouraging communities to appreciate the compassionate work of death doulas.

Fun Facts About National Death Doula Day

  • The day highlights the growing trend of death positivity, which seeks to normalize discussions about death and dying.
  • Many death doulas offer services that include emotional support, logistical planning, and creating meaningful rituals for the dying process.

Quiz

  1. What date is National Death Doula Day observed?
  2. Who founded National Death Doula Day?
  3. What is a common hashtag associated with this day?

Answers:

  1. April 20
  2. The National End of Life Doula Alliance (NEDA)
  3. #NationalDeathDoulaDay

FAQs

What is the role of a death doula?

A death doula provides non-medical support to individuals who are dying and their families, helping them through emotional and practical challenges during the end-of-life process.

How can someone find a death doula?

Individuals can consult directories from organizations like NEDA or ask their hospice or palliative care teams for recommendations.

Importance of National Death Doula Day

National Death Doula Day is important because it fosters awareness about end-of-life care options and encourages society to engage in open dialogues about death. This can lead to improved understanding and acceptance of dying as a natural part of life.

Related Topics

  • End-of-Life Care
  • Grief Support
  • Death Positivity Movement
  • Palliative Care
  • Hospice Services