New Delhi (NVI): Autism is a development disorder that affects millions of people worldwide, a condition that is triggered by generic as well as environmental factors.
Every year, June 18 is marked as Autistic Pride Day worldwide, to help people recognize the importance of pride for autistic people. It aims to bring about positive changes in the broader society.
Autism is a disorder that affects communication and social skills of an individual. The disorder has a direct impact on a person’s nervous system and overall affects the emotional, social and physical health of the person.
Hence, people living with autism often struggle with various issues, from their personal mental turmoil to bullying and even abuse. In these conditions, it becomes extremely difficult for them to live with pride and lead a normal life.
Technically, there is no way to cure Autism but regular therapies can help in general.
In 2005, Autistic Pride Day was first celebrated by Aspies for Freedom in Brazil and it soon became a global event that was being celebrated widely, offline and online.
According to World Health Organization (WHO), one in 160 children has an autism spectrum disorder. Most of them experience the stigma, discrimination, and torments that come with being a part of this spectrum.
Every year, on Autistic Pride Day, organizations plan various events and awareness campaigns to help people contribute to this cause.The events focus on educating people who are not a part of the autism spectrum.
Creating awareness among parents over the issues of autism and the method of dealing with these issues assumes a lot of significance.
Apart from this, autistic children are also at a major risk of being affected by a pandemic such as the current COVID-19 outbreak, which has had a huge impact on diagnosis and treatment of the condition.
It is because autism impacts a child’s social skills, speech and non-verbal communication and is influenced by a combination of environmental and genetic factors.
-RJV
