German psychiatrist Eugen Bleuler developed the term autism in 1911 to characterize a symptom of the most severe forms of schizophrenia, a notion he also created. The word autism is made up of two parts, “aut” and “ism”. The prefix of the word is “aut” which means “self” in Greek and the suffix “ism” means “state of being or condition” in Greek. Autism Spectrum State (ASD) is a neurological and developmental disorder that manifests early in It begins in infancy and lasts throughout a person’s life. Autism is often linked to difficulties in social and communication skills, as well as repetitive habits and routine adherence. It is also possible that it is accompanied by sensory sensitivity and attention difficulties.

Autism is considered a “spectrum” disorder since the type and intensity of symptoms people experience vary widely. Autism affects people from all cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. They find it difficult to understand what other people are thinking and feeling. This limits their ability to communicate, whether through words, gestures, touch or facial expressions. People with autism have difficulty learning. Their abilities may not develop at the appropriate age and in the proper way. For example, someone may have a communication problem but may excel in art, music, arithmetic, or memory. As a result, individuals may perform particularly well on analytical or problem-solving tests.

Autism is currently being diagnosed in greater numbers than ever before. However, the latest figures could be higher due to changes in the way the disease is diagnosed, not because more young people are getting it.

What are the signs of autism?

Autism symptoms normally occur before a child reaches the age of three. Some people show signs from birth.

• A lack of eye contact

• A restricted range of interests or extreme interest in certain topics are also common autistic signs.

• Repetition, they start repeating words and phrases, form a pattern by rocking back and forth or pulling a lever.

• Extreme sensitivity to sounds, sensations, smells or sights normal to others.

• Not listening to others or noticing people or things

• Avoid looking at things while someone else is doing it.

• Reluctance to be hugged or cuddled

• Problems using words, speech, gestures.

• Using a flat or robotic tone of voice or air

• Having difficulty adapting to changes in routine.

What causes autism?

The exact cause of autism is unknown. Problems in the areas of our brain that evaluate sensory data and process language could be to blame.

Autism does not discriminate and can affect people of any race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status. A child’s risk of autism is not affected by family income, lifestyle, or level of education. However, there are some factors:

· Because autism runs in families, certain genetic combinations can increase a child’s risk;

· Children with an older parent have a higher risk of developing autism.

· Pregnant women who are exposed to particular drugs or chemicals during pregnancy, such as alcohol or anti-epileptic drugs, are more likely to give birth to children with autism.

· Metabolic disorders such as diabetes and obesity in parents are also risk factors. Autism has also been linked to untreated phenylketonuria (commonly known as PKU, a metabolic disease caused by an enzyme deficiency) and rubella, which is German measles.

Autism has no known cure. However, for an autistic child, early treatment can make a significant difference in their development.

Behavioral and communicative therapy to help with structure and organization are the two basic types of treatment. One such treatment is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), which encourages positive behavior while discouraging negative behavior. Dressing, eating and communicating with others are all chores that occupational therapy can help with. A person who has difficulty being contacted, seen or heard may benefit from sensory integration therapy. People with speech disorders benefit from speech therapy.

Medications help relieve symptoms of ASDs, such as attention problems, hyperactivity, or anxiety.

Complementary therapies can help some people with autism improve their learning and communication skills. Songs, art and pet therapy, such as horseback riding and even scuba diving, sports are examples of complementary therapies.

Each autistic person is unique. No two people with autism (consider rephrasing the term “autistic” to avoid offending people who have been diagnosed with ASD.) act the same way. When it comes to autism, there are many levels of severity, and some people are considered highly functional. Diagnosis varies from person to person, and autism spectrum disorder refers to the fact that some people have more severe symptoms than others.

Some people with “high-functioning autism,” for example, can live healthy lives, work, marry, and have children. People with severe or low functioning autism, on the other hand, often need daily help and supervision.

Here are some ways you can help raise autism awareness:

Learn more about autism. To spread autism awareness, start by educating yourself about it. Reading about autism from reputable sources and research articles on the condition can be helpful.

A great place to start is the National Human Genome Research Institute website. They have helpful answers to these autism questions, as well as a list of additional resources at the end: What is autism, what are the symptoms of autism, how to diagnose, treat and treat autism, probable causes, how it is hereditary. Along with the questions, one should also know and read about the possible interventions that can be applied to people with autism.

Many people are working hard to raise awareness about autism, but it is still not enough. If you’re committed to raising awareness about autism, you shouldn’t just educate yourself and talk about the issue; you should also be active. You can help in different ways; just remember that getting out there and doing something about the problem is the best approach to start making the world a better place for people with autism and their families. Find events, programs and services for people with autism in your hometown. Instead of just looking for a program, we can also create one on our own and spread information and awareness about autism and families caring for children and adults with autism.

Another way to spread awareness would be to participate in programs. The goal of these programs is to help people with autism connect with others. They typically offer not only social support, but also assistance with some of the barriers and changes people on the spectrum face as children, teens, and adults. Spending time with them can be another way to educate them. Recognize and reward positive behavior. With children with ASD, positive reinforcement can go a long way, so make an effort to get them to notice and realize that they’ve done something wonderful, even if it’s in the simplest form, a act of kindness or sharing. When they do well or learn a new skill, praise them for it, being very specific about what action they are being praised for. Other methods of rewarding children for excellent behavior include giving them a sticker or allowing them to play with a favorite object.

Create a safe zone in your home for them. Create a private space in your home for your child to relax, feel comfortable and feel safe. This will involve structuring and setting boundaries in a way your child can understand. Visual cues can be very helpful If your child is prone to tantrums or other self-harming behaviors, you may also need to secure the house.

Volunteer in autism campaigns. If you are not currently connected to the autistic community and cannot afford to give, volunteering your time is another method to help and raise awareness. After learning a little more about autism, you may be ready to take the next step. Many fundraisers, conferences, seminars and events are organized to help people with autism and increase awareness.

Become a spokesperson for the cause. Speak for children and adults with autism. Allowing people to knock them down or say bad things about them is not a good idea. Talk about your experience. Make sure people with special needs are welcomed and respected at work and treated with the same respect as everyone else. With the right help, people with autism can be as successful as everyone else.

4. Express yourself. Regarding potential legislation that impacts people with autism, write or call your state legislators, local legislators, or other officials. Be aware of the implications of these rules on access to services, insurance, research, and other issues. Encourage people to follow your example. Everyone’s opinion counts. When it comes to autism, be careful of your behaviors and your words. When you connect with others and help people with autism thrive, set a positive example for your youth and the community. Help them feel welcome and part of your life.