April is Autism Acceptance Month. It is a month designated to spreading awareness, promoting acceptance, and igniting change, to ensure all affected by autism are able to live the highest quality of life possible.
The Autism Society of America is continuing its annual celebration with the campaign, #CelebrateDifferences. The campaign is put forth to educate people on the signs, symptoms, and realities of autism. It is important to create inclusive communities where everyone, affected with autism, has access to the resources, support, and information they need to live a quality life. For all autism resources, visit autismsociety.org.
What is Autism
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain. All causes of ASD are unknown. A genetic condition is one of a few know causes. It is believed there are many causes of ASD that act together to change the ways people develop.
ASD affects how people interact with others, communicate, and behave. People with ASD can vary significantly in their abilities. For example, some individuals may be nonverbal, whereas others may have advanced conversation skills. Individuals with ASD also vary in the help they need completing activities of daily life. Some people need a lot of help, whereas others can live with little to no help.
ASD begins before the age of 3 and can continue on throughout a person’s life. Symptoms may improve over time and can be different for everyone. Some people may progress and learn new skills as they age, whereas other individuals may lose new skills they once learned.
ASD can affect anyone regardless of racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. ASD is 4 times more common in boys than girls. People with the following risk factors may be at greater risk of ASD:
Having a sibling with ASD
Having certain genetic or chromosomal conditions, such as fragile X syndrome or tuberous sclerosis
Experiencing complications at birth
Being born to older parents
How to Celebrate
Make a donation at autismsociety.org:
$25 provides one hour of support from the National Helpline.
$50 supports social story development for COVID-19 resources.
$100 goes towards federal advocacy efforts for human rights.
$250 supports National program development for employment, first responder training, safety and wandering.
Visit autism friendly businesses by searching on google in your area.
Educate yourself and your community about autism.
Wear blue!
References
1. “Autism Acceptance Month.” Autism Society, Autism Society, 1 Apr. 2022, https://autismsociety.org/autism-acceptance-month/.
2. “What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder?” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 31 Mar. 2022, https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/facts.html.