National Doodle Day is an occasion that merges art, creativity, and philanthropy. On this day, doodles crafted by celebrities are auctioned, with the proceeds directed towards charitable causes. For instance, in 2017, notable Scottish personalities engaged in doodling to support an epilepsy charity. To partake in the celebration of National Doodle Day, one can grab a pen or pencil along with a notebook or scrap paper and commence doodling.

History and Origins

National Doodle Day was first launched in 2004 by Epilepsy Action as a way to engage the public in a fun and accessible activity while raising funds to support individuals affected by epilepsy. Over the years, it has grown into a well-known event that encourages people from all walks of life, including celebrities, artists, and the general public, to take part in doodling to support the cause.

The concept behind the day is simple: drawing or doodling is an activity that everyone can participate in, regardless of skill level. It allows for personal expression and can be both therapeutic and enjoyable. Epilepsy Action uses the day not only to raise funds but also to raise awareness about epilepsy, a neurological condition that affects around 1 in 100 people in the UK.

Objectives of National Doodle Day

1. Raise Awareness: National Doodle Day helps raise awareness about epilepsy, a condition that affects people’s lives in varying degrees. By linking the day to a creative and lighthearted activity like doodling, it opens up conversations about the condition in a positive and accessible way.

2. Fundraising: The event is a major fundraiser for Epilepsy Action, with proceeds going towards essential services like epilepsy helplines, online resources, community support, and advocacy efforts. The charity’s work is vital in helping those with epilepsy live better lives by providing information and guidance.

3. Promote Creativity: Doodling, as a form of art, is an easy and fun way to express creativity. National Doodle Day encourages people of all ages, from school children to professional artists, to engage in doodling as a means of self-expression.

4. Community Engagement: The event brings together various segments of society, from well-known figures and celebrities to everyday individuals, in a collaborative effort to support a common cause.

How National Doodle Day is Observed

National Doodle Day is observed in several engaging ways, both online and offline, with individuals and groups participating in fun and creative activities. Some of the ways people observe National Doodle Day include:

1. Doodle Auction

A highlight of National Doodle Day is the celebrity doodle auction, where famous individuals from the worlds of art, entertainment, and sports contribute doodles. These doodles are then auctioned off, with proceeds going to Epilepsy Action. Over the years, celebrities such as Grayson Perry, David Tennant, Stephen Fry, and Joanna Lumley have contributed their doodles, making the event exciting for both fans and art collectors.

2. Public Participation

National Doodle Day encourages members of the public to submit their own doodles. Whether you're a professional artist, an aspiring doodler, or just someone who enjoys drawing, you can create a doodle and share it with the National Doodle Day community. Participants are often encouraged to share their doodles on social media using the hashtag #NationalDoodleDay, helping to spread awareness and show support for the cause.

3. School and Workplace Events

Many schools and workplaces get involved by hosting doodling sessions or competitions. These events are a fun way for students and colleagues to bond over a creative activity, and they often serve as a platform for discussing epilepsy and its impact. Schools may use the event to encourage artistic expression among students, while workplaces may run friendly doodling competitions to raise money for Epilepsy Action.

4. Doodle Competitions

Some schools, offices, and organizations hold doodle competitions, where participants can submit their doodles for judging. Prizes might be awarded for categories such as "most creative doodle," "funniest doodle," or "best celebrity lookalike doodle."

5. Fundraising Challenges

National Doodle Day also invites participants to take part in fundraising challenges, such as setting up personal fundraising pages where people can donate in exchange for doodles, or participating in sponsored doodling events where participants aim to create as many doodles as possible within a set time.

The Therapeutic Value of Doodling

Doodling is not just a fun and creative outlet; it also has therapeutic benefits, which align with the goals of National Doodle Day. Research suggests that doodling can help with focus, relaxation, and stress relief. It activates the brain in ways that promote concentration and creativity, making it a beneficial activity for people of all ages.

For individuals living with epilepsy, engaging in creative activities like doodling can serve as a positive outlet for dealing with the emotional and psychological challenges that can accompany the condition. National Doodle Day embraces this therapeutic aspect by promoting doodling as an accessible and enjoyable way for people to express themselves and support others.

Epilepsy and the Work of Epilepsy Action

Epilepsy is a neurological condition that affects brain activity and can result in seizures. There are many different types of epilepsy, and the condition can impact individuals in various ways. While some people can manage epilepsy with medication, others may face more significant challenges, including frequent seizures, difficulty with employment, or social stigma.

Epilepsy Action provides a range of services to support individuals affected by epilepsy, including:

• Helpline and Support Services: A confidential helpline that offers advice and information to people with epilepsy, their families, and caregivers.
• Advocacy and Awareness: Working to reduce stigma and improve public understanding of epilepsy.
• Campaigning: Lobbying for better healthcare services, employment support, and research into epilepsy treatments.
• Educational Resources: Providing online resources, booklets, and workshops for individuals and communities to learn more about epilepsy.

How to Get Involved

Anyone can get involved in National Doodle Day, and there are various ways to contribute:

• Submit a Doodle: Participants can create a doodle and share it through the National Doodle Day website or on social media to help raise awareness.
• Bid on Celebrity Doodles: The celebrity doodle auction is a popular event, where you can bid on original artwork created by famous individuals, with all proceeds going to Epilepsy Action.
• Host a Doodle Event: Schools, workplaces, and community groups can organize doodling events to engage participants and raise funds.
• Donate: You can contribute directly to Epilepsy Action by donating on their website or through fundraising platforms connected to National Doodle Day.

Conclusion

National Doodle Day is a unique and creative event in the UK that brings together people of all ages and backgrounds to support a worthy cause. By encouraging people to doodle, the event not only raises essential funds for Epilepsy Action but also promotes creativity, self-expression, and awareness about epilepsy. Whether through doodling competitions, auctions, or social media participation, National Doodle Day provides an enjoyable and meaningful way for individuals and communities to come together in support of those affected by epilepsy.