Autism is a complex developmental disability and signs usually show during early childhood which affects the person’s ability to communicate and interact with others. To ensure that all autistic individuals are able to achieve the highest quality of life possible, yearly the month of April is observed as World Autism Awareness Month. This effort is led by the Autism Society yearly to spread awareness on autism.
Autism or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is defined as a lifelong developmental disability that typically appears during childhood and is characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and non-verbal communication. Usually, there is nothing dissimilar with how people with ASD look from other people, but a person with ASD often communicate, interact, behave and learn in ways differently. There is no known specific cause of autism but the early diagnosis of ADS can help the person receive the support and services they need to live a quality life with equal opportunities like others. According to Autism Society (https://www.autism-society.org/what-is/), here are some signs to help the early detection of autism:
- Speaks later than typical or not at all (non-verbal)
- Repetition in language or movement, such as repeating the same word or sounds, hand flapping, or any repeated movement
- A typical non-verbal communication, including avoiding eye contact, giving few facial expressions, or having a monotone
- Prefers solitary or parallel play rather than engaging in associative or cooperative play with other children
- Extremely distressed by changes, including new foods or changes in schedule
- Preference for predictable, structured play over spontaneous or make-believe play
- Strong, persistent interest on specific topic, part of a toy, or item
Currently, there is still no found cure for ASD, but it is treatable if detected early especially during childhood. They can be provided with the appropriate intervention services and educational program to improve the child’s development. These services include therapies to help them talk, walk and interact with others. Moreover, everybody could contribute to their improvement if everyone knows how to treat, respect and accept their individuality. Remember that each person has their own differences, thus everybody deserves to be respected and treated equally in the society. But most of all these kind of persons need to be loved and given full attention.
NO I Angelica O. Pajulas
