Autism awareness is a growing movement, and it's important to bring attention to autism. The more people know about autism, the better equipped they are to help those on the Spectrum and their families. Autism Awareness Month is ascribed to April and has been observed since 1988 and is one of many ways we show support for individuals with autism.
In this blog, we are going to cover some of the most common aspects of autism. This way, when we celebrate the next Autism Awareness Month, you will be well-equipped with the right information.
Autism is a neurological disorder
Autism is a neurological disorder that affects the parts of the brain that control social interaction, communication skills, and cognitive function. It is often present from early childhood and can affect intellectual development as well as physical growth.
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are characterized by problems with social interaction, language use, and behavior. ASD has no single cause or cure but there are treatments for some symptoms.
Autism statistics
According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), 1 in every 68 children is diagnosed with autism spectrum. This means that there are about 3 million Americans who have been diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It's important to remember that while these numbers are alarming, they represent only a fraction of those who could potentially be affected by ASD.
The CDC also reports that approximately one out of every 88 females and one out of every 166 males will be diagnosed with ASD before reaching their 18th birthday.
Autism is on the rise
Autism is a spectrum disorder, meaning that it affects each person differently. There are many different types of autism and the symptoms may vary depending on the type. Autism can be life-long, so if you think your child has been diagnosed with autism, it’s important to know what kind of autism he or she has so that you can plan for his or her future needs.
Autism is on the rise in America because more people are getting diagnosed with it than ever before—and it’s not just because there's more awareness about this condition now (although that certainly doesn't hurt). It's also because technology makes diagnosis easier than ever before. Parents today don't have to travel across town or state just so they can see their pediatrician. Instead, they can do all their research online at home before going to the doctor.
Autism can't be cured but there are treatments available
Although autism can't be cured, there are treatments available that can help a person manage their symptoms. These treatments may include behavioral therapy, medication and/or dietary changes.
Behavioral therapy is used to teach children how to cope with their social anxiety or other problems they may experience as they get older. The medication works by reducing stress levels in the body so that it doesn't have as many side effects (such as depression). Dietary changes can also help lower inflammation levels within the body which affects how well your brain functions at any given time in life - whether it be during infancy or adulthood!
Some signs of autism are:
Some signs of autism are obvious. For instance, when a child doesn't talk at all or throws frequent tantrums. Other signs can be less clear; for example, some kids don't respond to their names when they're called or have trouble making eye contact with others.
Autism is a complex disorder that affects the way people think, feel, and behave. The cause is unknown but there's growing evidence that it may be linked to genetics or environment (such as being born preterm). Symptoms vary from person to person so it's not always easy for parents or teachers to recognize them as part of an autistic spectrum disorder (ASD).
Some people with autism don't like to be touched.
Some people with autism don't like to be touched. They may not enjoy hugs or kisses, and they may even cringe at the thought of being cuddled. This can make it difficult for their loved ones. But there are ways you can help them feel more comfortable around you!
First, try some gentle touches—like holding hands or patting someone on the back of their hand—to get them used to physical contact with strangers (or even friends). You might also try using verbal cues instead of touching: "I'm going to give you a hug now," for example, will tell your child what's about to happen before actually doing so; this will make him more likely than not just accept whatever happens next without complaint!
People with autism may not speak much
Some people with autism may not speak much or at all even if they're capable of doing so. This is because they may feel uncomfortable around other people and prefer to live independently. Some individuals, however, communicate using sign language or a combination of gestures and words that others understand easily.
For many people with autism, communication is an issue because it's difficult for them to get their thoughts across verbally in any way that's coherent enough for another person to understand them correctly—if at all!
There are many things that make this difficult: syntax (grammar), pronunciation errors (speech impediments), and poor memory skills caused by overstimulation during early childhood development stages. Sometimes, it may be more serious issues like intellectual disability due to lack of stimulation during those same critical developmental years.
Many people living with autism have good language skills but find it hard to read non-verbal cues
Many people living with autism have good language skills but find it hard to read non-verbal cues from others, like facial expressions and body language. This can make them feel alienated and lonely, which can affect their moods and ability to socialize.
People with autism may struggle to make eye contact with others or understand what they are saying. They might also have trouble understanding body language like gestures or facial expressions because they aren't aware of their effect on others around them.
Conclusion
I hope this blog has helped you understand more about autism and what it means for those who live with it. The best way to help people who have autism is through education, which is the reason for writing this blog.
If you are looking to support people living with disabilities such as autism and the Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) who care for them, visit the 1CFS shop and buy one or more of our cool 1CFS T-shirts. It goes a long way to spread awareness and financially support people living with developmental disabilities.