Building a More Inclusive Society for People with Autism
at the Autism & I/DD Counseling Center
April is World Autism Month! According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects an estimated 1 in 36 children and 1 in 45 adults in the United States today. Thanks to groundbreaking research, advocacy, and improvements to care over the past few decades – autism is much better understood today. However, there’s still more work to do to improve the lives of the individuals and families affected by autism.
Everyone has a different experience with autism.
Some folks with autism are nonverbal, while others are able to speak. Some require significant daily support, while others are able to live independently. Together, we can raise awareness of the many experiences of individuals living with autism and build a society that better meets their needs.
Autism & I/DD Counseling Center
Aurora Mental Health & Recovery (AMHR)'s Autism & I/DD Counseling Center provides specialized mental health services for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD). Our programs for Adults and Youth are designed to help patients build on strengths, reach goals, and reduce symptoms. Our staff are specially trained to manage the challenges faced by people living with these unique diagnoses.
Our Services Are Available in Dozens of Languages! We offer FREE translation services and provide culturally sensitive treatment options for every client.
What Is It?
As we mentioned, there are many types of autism, and the severity of symptoms vary widely. Specifically, autism is characterized by challenges with social communication skills and repetitive or restricted behaviors or thinking.
It is also common for people with autism to experience other medical or mental health issues which impact their quality of life.
Some of the most common co-occurring conditions with autism include:
- Anxiety and Depression
- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Gastrointestinal (GI) Disorders
- Seizures and Sleep Disorders
While it can impact anyone regardless of sex, age, race, or ethnicity – boys are four times more likely to be diagnosed with autism. However, there is some evidence that autism presents differently in girls, with more subtle symptoms that may go unrecognized by doctors.
Autism is a lifelong condition which will impact the individual differently throughout the course of their lives as they receive treatment, build strengths, and overcome challenges along the way.
How to Help
There are many ways to provide support to the autism community. It takes an alliance of people involved at different levels to break down stigmas, provide education, improve care, and help folks with autism lead the fulfilling lives they deserve.
Here are just a few ways you can get involved:
- Educate Yourself: Autism Speaks provides a variety of resources to learn more.
- Advocate for the Autism Community: Reach out to your elected officials to help protect and expand treatment options for your friends, family, and neighbors living with autism.
- Donate: Help organizations like AMHR continue to provide life-changing care to the folks who need it.
Every day, people living with autism are overcoming enormous challenges to live rich and productive lives. We should celebrate their successes and do our best to eliminate the barriers lying in their way including lack of access to care, discrimination in the workplace, and social stigma. Join Aurora Mental Health & Recovery in building a more inclusive society for people with autism!
