World Autism Month is Here!
April is here, which is known as World Autism Month. Since my son AJ has autism, I’m intimately aware of the strengths and challenges it brings. I hope that after reading this article, you’ll be more informed about autism, and be inspired to share this post with family and friends. At the bottom of the page, you’ll have an opportunity to help solve the puzzle of autism.
What is autism?
Autism is a developmental disability caused by attributes in the brain that are different than in “typical” people. It is characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication. Since autism refers to a broad range of conditions, it is also known as ASD, or autism spectrum disorder. The spectrum ranges from mild, to moderate, to severe. Every person affected displays a unique combination of strengths and challenges. For example, one of AJ’s strengths is creating beautiful artwork. He excels in painting and ceramics. He is also very verbal. Upon first meeting him, you probably wouldn’t know that he has ASD. But some folks with ASD are totally non-verbal.
One area that AJ struggles with is stimming. Autistics often get easily overstimulated. In order to cope with this, they often stim. In AJ’s case, he will hop up and down repeatedly. Sometimes this behavior can go on for 10-15 minutes. Over the years (he just turned 30 last month), it has unfortunately become more severe. Oftentimes, he’ll hop in our hallway (which is right by my bedroom) in the middle of the night. The result is that I can’t sleep, which in turn makes me frustrated. And sometimes I’ll lash out at him, even though I know he can’t help it. Fortunately, he’s recently been taking anxiety medication, which has helped quite a bit.
Causation and statistics
Research indicates that autism is created by a variety of factors: genetic influences and environmental influences, including social causation. Over the years, many people (myself included) believed that autism was linked to vaccines. But scientists have conducted extensive research over the last two decades, and have concluded that there is no link between childhood vaccinations and autism.
Despite decades of research, since autism is a complex neurological disorder, finding a cure has thus far eluded researchers and medical professionals. Currently, 1 in 36 children in the U.S. are autistic. Ten years ago, I created a public service announcement for autism as part of my master’s program in public relations (see YouTube video below). At that time, autism plagued 1 in 68 children, almost half of today’s numbers. The main theories suggest that autism is rising due to increased awareness, changes in reporting practices, and environmental factors such as parents’ age and maternal health.
ASD also affects 1 in 45 adults. On average, autism is diagnosed at approximately age five in the United States; signs usually pop up by age two or three. AJ’s doctor officially determined that he had autism when he was four years old. We knew that some of his behavior was unusual, such as when he’d line up his Hot Wheels cars in neat rows.
Solving the puzzle
These diagnosis levels, coupled with prevalent misconceptions about autism, and the spread of disinformation, have made it more critical than ever that autistic people are supported, championed and celebrated. Autism Speaks is a leading advocacy and research organization that is committed to solving the puzzle of autism. There mission is “dedicated to creating an inclusive world for all individuals with autism throughout their lifespan. We do this through advocacy, services, supports, research and innovation, and advances in care for autistic individuals and their families.”
In recognition of World Autism Month, Autism Speaks has launched its #ActFearlessly campaign, and is encouraging the public to sign its pledge, share their stories, advocate for legislation and support the unwavering commitment of Autism Speaks to the wide range of experiences and needs of those on the spectrum. Please share this post with your family and friends. Additionally, please click here to donate, so that AJ, and others like him, can soon be set free from this illness.