More should be done for children diagnosed with autism
THE EDITOR, Madam:
THE WORLD Health Organization (WHO) estimates that, worldwide, about one in 100 children have autism. While autism can present challenges and hurdles, it also brings unique strengths and perspectives. Every April, Autism Speaks celebrates World Autism Month, beginning with the United Nations-sanctioned World Autism Awareness Day on April 2.
This day serves as a critical reminder of the millions of individuals and families living with autism spectrum disorder.The day is set aside to raise awareness, promote acceptance, and celebrate the unique strengths and experiences of autistic people. The theme for World Autism Awareness Day 2024 is ‘Moving from Surviving to Thriving: Autistic individuals share regional perspectives’. This theme goes beyond just raising awareness of autism. It emphasises the importance of moving the conversation forward, from simply understanding autism to creating an environment where autistic people can truly thrive.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain. People with ASD often have problems with social communication and interaction, and restricted or repetitive behaviours or interests. ASD begins before the age of three years and can last throughout a person’s life, although symptoms may improve over time. Some children show ASD symptoms within the first 12 months of life. In others, symptoms may not show up until 24 months of age or later. Some children with ASD gain new skills and meet developmental milestones until around 18 to 24 months of age, and then they stop gaining new skills, or lose the skills they once had.
MORE INCLUSIVE
Unfortunately, in spite of all the information available regarding autism, there are so many unknown variables regarding this developmental disorder. Many parents struggle daily to adjust to the reality that their child might be autistic. It is also rather expensive to treat adequately a child who has been diagnosed with autism. Some children who are at the lower end of the spectrum might not need as much intervention as those who are at the highest end of the spectrum. The autistic journey can be quite lonely, both for the autistic child and parents. It is for this reason that parents and guardians need to reach out for support in their communities and the wider society. In Jamaica, the Jamaica Autism Support Association provides support for parents of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Much more can and should be done for children who are diagnosed with autism. One of the most recognisable symbols of World Autism Awareness Day is the colour blue. In support of World Autism Day, many landmarks, buildings, and monuments around the world were illuminated with blue lights to raise awareness.
WAYNE CAMPBELL waykam@yahoo.com