Autism Awareness

The 2nd of April marks World Autism Day. You often hear conversations where people categorize autistic people with nonsense. It makes you wonder how many people are really aware of what Autism means.

“Autism spectrum disorder is a condition related to brain development that impacts how a person perceives and socializes with others, Mayo Clinic”.

You can say children with autism are difficult and most people lack an understanding of their reactions and how well to deal with them. One thing they cannot be equated to is being stupid. Their condition sometimes causes them to be withdrawn socially which causes many of their social interaction problems. 

This disorder also includes limited and repetitive patterns of behaviours. This shows up early in childhood, according to the Mayo Clinic, which also results in anti-social problems. 

There is no medical cure for autism spectrum disorder but early treatment and detection can change how you begin to find ways of inclusivity, helping them adjust and making their life bearable even with their lack of social skills. 

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On Instagram, families now proudly talk about their autistic journey with siblings and share their lives as a way of desensitizing the myths and ideas that people have of them. A popular Instagram handle “@mybrothermaxie shows the world that autism is a superpower” the social media which they started as teens to show people how to treat people with empathy, kindness and respect irrespective of their condition.

Promoting acceptance and inclusion of individuals with autism is essential for creating a supportive and welcoming community. Here’s how you can:

1. Embracing Neurodiversity: Recognizing that differences in brain function and processing are a natural part of human variation. A person with autism is just one variation of neurodiversity and that individuals with autism have unique strengths and abilities to offer. They also exhibit exceptional skill and brilliance in some limited field. 
2. Value Unique Perspectives: As savants their unique skills have been noticed. Kim Peek, one of the models of Rain Man, was able to memorize a book upon a single reading and was said to have memorized over 12,000 books during his life. There is value in diverse ways of thinking and problem-solving, which can lead to innovative solutions and creative contributions.
3. Celebrate Differences: Encourage the differences that make each individual unique, including those with autism. Diversity enriches our communities and enhances our collective experience, and that everyone deserves to be valued and respected for who they are. Empathize, respect and show kindness to everyone.
4. Create Inclusive Spaces: We must always advocate for the creation of inclusive spaces where individuals with autism feel welcome and supported. This may include sensory-friendly environments, inclusive recreational activities, and accessible educational and employment opportunities.
5. Challenge Stigma and Stereotypes: Challenge stereotypes associated with autism. Remind people that individuals with autism are not defined by their diagnosis and that they deserve to be treated with dignity, respect, and understanding.
6. Promote Equal Opportunities: We must advocate for equal opportunities for individuals with autism in all aspects of community life, including education, employment, and social participation. We must support initiatives that promote accessibility and inclusivity for individuals with autism.

We can create a more compassionate and understanding community where everyone feels valued and supported. In embracing acceptance and inclusion, we pave the way for a more accepting community where every individual, regardless of their differences, feels valued and supported. When we show kindness, empathy and respect for them, we give the permission to be and to thrive. We help them to become superheroes. Together, let’s celebrate the unique strengths and talents of individuals with autism, and strive to create a world where everyone belongs.