World Autism Awareness Day

Autism is a developmental disorder and people with ASD are characterized by difficulties with social interaction and by restricted and repetitive behavior. The problem is associated with a combination of environmental and genetic factors.

World Autism Awareness Day is observed by the Member States of the United Nations on April 2 to raise public awareness of autism. Several organizations across the world contribute to the diagnosis and treatment of people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

This year, World Autism Awareness Day is being observed amid the coronavirus pandemic, which has spread to over 150 countries and killed thousands of people globally.

The theme for World Autism Awareness Day this year is “The Transition to Adulthood”. When we grow, the society expects us to become a participant in the social, economic and political life of our community. However, people with autism face challenges in doing so. There are not many schools or institutes for an autistic person and as a result of which they fail to keep pace with this fast-moving world.

The theme for this year focuses on issues related to the transition to adulthood. It draws attention to the importance of participation in youth culture, decision making and making them independent by providing access to post-secondary education and employment.

Written by:

Rachel Kuruvilla

11-G