World Autism Awareness Day 2023: All you need to know about history, significance and more

Autism is no longer classified as a single disorder, but rather an entire spectrum ranging in severity
PUBLISHED APR 2, 2023
Representational Image (Polina Kovaleva/Pexels)
Representational Image (Polina Kovaleva/Pexels)

World Autism Awareness Day is celebrated on April 2 every year. Throughout the month of April, the focus is on sharing stories and providing opportunities to foster worldwide support for people with autism by increasing understanding and acceptance of them. This year, while we celebrate the 16th World Autism Awareness Day, we have committed to working together to improve the lives of people on the spectrum.

The United Nations Department of Global Communications and the Department of Economic and Social Affairs is coordinating the celebration of World Autism Awareness Day 2023 with the Institute of Neurodiversity (ION), a group founded by and for neurodivergent people and allies.

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What is the history of World Autism Awareness Day?

Although at the time it was thought to be a form of schizophrenia, European psychiatrists began diagnosing autism in the early to the mid-19th century. Several prominent medical professionals contributed to the advancement of our understanding of autism as a disorder, including doctors in the United States, Russia, Switzerland, and Austria.

What is autism?

Autism or autism spectrum disorder is a brain developmental disorder that affects a wide range of people and is typically diagnosed by the age of two or three. Social difficulties, repetitive speech, nonverbal behavior, and behavioral issues are common symptoms in children with autism. Autism affects one in every 100 children, according to WHO. An ongoing neurological condition known as autism typically begins to manifest in infancy.



 

What are the signs and symptoms of autism?

A developmental disability caused by differences in the brain is known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The early signs and side effects of autism are:

1) Delayed language skills.

2) Delayed movement skills.

3) Delayed cognitive or learning skills.

4) Hyperactive, impulsive, and/or inattentive behavior.

5) Epilepsy or seizure disorder.

6) Unusual eating and sleeping habits.

7) Gastrointestinal issues (for example, constipation)

8)Unusual mood or emotional reactions.



 

What is the significance of Autism Awareness Day?

World Autism Awareness Day aims to raise public awareness of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which will benefit those affected by the condition and make it possible for autistic people to reach their full potential.

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