About one in every 36 children and one in 45 adults in the United States has been identified with Autism. Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is defined by the Center for Disease and Control as a developmental disability that causes disparity in the brain. There is no definite diagnosis for Autism, however, some patterns of behaviors can be observed in many children before age 2. Symptoms of Autism can vary greatly, which is why the spectrum of Autism is widely used in the assessment of this disorder. To date, it is known as one of the fastest-growing developmental disorders. We are obtaining a deeper understanding and advancement in research of the spectrum in modern diagnosis methods. 

April marks the start of World Autism Month, created in order to help spread awareness of this disorder by Bernard Rimland, Ph.D. in 1970, a psychologist and autism researcher. The month is kicked off by World Autism Awareness Day on April 2nd, observed by the United Nations as a way to promote acceptance and human rights of Autistic individuals. Throughout April, the topics of Autism Acceptance and Awareness are encouraged in discussion among communities, schools, medical facilities, and businesses alike. 

Within the broad range of symptoms, some of the most affected areas include difficulty in speech, challenged social skills, repetitive behaviors, and nonverbal communication. Children and adults on the spectrum often face a variety of obstacles throughout their lives, varying from bullying, discrimination in finding work, inability to live independently without assistance, and limited access to healthcare. This is one of the many reasons that the importance of widespread knowledge and awareness has become eminent to help improve early diagnosis and intervention for individuals with Autism. 

World Autism Awareness Day as well as the entire month of April can be utilized to draw attention to Autism as a growing health crisis and to share ideas on how to better support community engagement, acceptance, opportunities, and meaningful assistance. One of the goals of the Autism Awareness effort is fostering safe spaces for inclusion and recognition in society and promoting empathy and acceptance of Autism worldwide. It also aims to both understand and celebrate the unique talents and skills that Autistic individuals possess. 

There are several symbols used to help represent awareness for Autism. The Autism Awareness ribbon, or puzzle piece ribbon trademarked by the Autism Society in 1999, is the universal symbol for Autism Awareness and is used by several nonprofit organizations as a symbol of unity and the universal awareness mission. The puzzle pattern reflects the beautiful complexity of the puzzling condition. The different colors and shapes represent the deep diversity between characteristics of those on the spectrum in symptoms, as well as the wide range of races, ethnic origins, and socioeconomic backgrounds affected all over the world. The primary color for Autism is blue, which is associated with acceptance and serenity. As a part of this effort, many people choose to wear blue on April 2nd to show support for Autism Awareness.   

Expanding awareness and support for Autism can work to improve early diagnosis, as well as promote widespread acceptance for Autistic individuals. If you are interested in taking time this month to learn more about Autism and how it plays a part in your own community, we encourage you to read the articles linked below for more information. Together we can work to advance public understanding and create a more inclusive society for Autistic individuals to thrive in.