World Autism Acceptance Month: Here’s how to do your part

April is World Autism Acceptance Month and kicks off on 2 April. The campaign is dedicated to raising Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) awareness.

The Society for Autism, founded in 1965 by Dr Rimland, launched the campaign in the 1970s to promote a better understanding of ASD.

Here’s what you need to know.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)

Signs and symptoms

Autism is characterised, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication, repetitive behaviours and differences in sensory perception.

Other characteristics include delayed language skills, delayed movement skills, delayed cognitive or learning skills, epilepsy or seizures, as well as unusual eating and sleeping habits.

It’s important to note that ASD can be managed. The ASD awareness ribbon is a rainbow spectrum paired with a puzzle piece, the infinity symbol. People also wear blue to show support.

Autism in South Africa

ASD is a lifelong developmental disability which manifests during childhood, usually within the first three years.

A leading researcher based at the University of Cape Town (UCT) estimates that approximately 2% of South Africa’s population is affected by ASD.

Taxpayers who are disabled or who have dependents with disabilities (including ASD) qualify for tax disability rebates.

Stigma and misperceptions

Unfortunately, stigma, the lack of access to medical interventions, under-diagnosis, overdiagnosis, and cultural misperceptions still hinder progress.

The Department of Social Development encourages families of children with autism to ensure they are enrolled in early childhood development programmes.

What can you do?

People unfamiliar with ASD are encouraged to attend a seminar or conference to gain a better understanding of how to recognise and support those with the illness.

Buy a ribbon to help fund research, donate to organisations in need and help the world understand ASD by speaking out against stigma and misperceptions.

For more information and services, contact the following organisations: