World Autism Awareness Day: What is autism and its symptoms

World Autism Awareness Day is annually observed on April 2. It serves as a reminder to educate the public about this disorder and encourage societal efforts to enhance the lives of individuals affected by Autism. Autism is a neurological condition resulting from brain changes in children.

The initiative to celebrate World Autism Awareness Day was initiated to raise awareness and support individuals impacted by the disorder. The day is dedicated to disseminating essential information about Autism, fostering sensitivity towards affected children, and striving to improve their quality of life.

Understanding Autism is crucial in fostering empathy and support for affected children. Autism, also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder, manifests in distinct behavioural patterns, communication styles, and learning approaches in affected children. It is a lifelong condition without a cure.

Symptoms of Autism typically surface during childhood, usually around the ages of 2-3, although diagnosis may sometimes be delayed. Detecting Autism relies heavily on behavioural assessments, contributing to potential delays in identification. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 1 in every 100 children worldwide is diagnosed with Autism.

Children with Autism often encounter challenges in social interactions and communication. They may struggle to interpret body language or understand verbal cues from others, complicating their ability to comprehend conversations.

Common symptoms of Autism include repetitive behaviours, heightened sensory sensitivity, aversion to physical touch, monotone speech patterns, fixation on specific interests, and difficulty understanding or responding to verbal and non-verbal communication.

While the exact cause of Autism remains unknown, genetic and environmental factors are believed to play a role.

Recognizing the symptoms associated with Autism and understanding its complexities are vital steps towards creating a supportive environment for affected individuals and promoting their well-being.