April 2 is observed as World Autism Awareness Day in order to emphasise the significance of supporting people with autism and to improve the quality of their life.
In different ways and to different degrees, people view autism as a source of disappointment, annoyance, shame or worse. This stigma may keep parents from seeking a diagnosis and providing adequate therapies for their children, from participating fully in family get togethers or public events, and from enjoying the same quality of life as their neighbors.
People with autism usually do not have identifiable facial characteristics, such as in Down Syndrome. As a result, their unusual behavior may be mistaken for terrible parenting, a dangerous lack of self-control, or mental illness. That may increase the burden of stigma.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects how people interact with others, communicate, learn, and behave. Autism is known as a “spectrum” disorder because there is wide variation in the type and severity of symptoms people experience.
Symptoms of ASD often include:
* Difficulty with communication and interaction with other people
* Restricted interests and repetitive behaviors
* Symptoms that affect their ability to function in school, work, and other areas of life
ASD can usually be reliably diagnosed by age 2. It is important to seek an evaluation as soon as possible. The earlier ASD is diagnosed, the sooner training and therapies can begin.
More than simply being aware of Autism, people should start accepting them for who they are and embracing their difference.
George Joseph ✍
