by Daniel Coffman

Created on: December 23, 2011   Last Updated: December 25, 2011

Autism is a developmental disorder that affects children, generally in the first three years. The occurrence of autism is currently 1 in 110 births per year. Although it is a “spectrum disorder”, meaning that it affects individuals differently and at different severity, there are several symptoms common to all those affected by this condition:

Delay in speaking or inability to speak

Avoiding eye contact

Repetitive actions, specifically repeating words or physical motions

Obsessively lining up toys or items

Discomfort interacting with others

Because autism spectrum disorder comes in various forms and affects individuals differently, the condition can be misinterpreted by those unfamiliar with it. Many people confuse autism with mental illness or mental retardation. But it is not an indication nor a deficiency of intelligence. While there is no “cure”, autism can be treated, usually through corrective behaviors, physical therapy and other related services such as speech.

Parents and loved ones of those with autism do have resources available to them. The greatest asset to those dealing with a loved one with autism is understanding. The foundation of understanding is education. Raising autism awareness with family, friends, peers and one's community benefits everyone.

The most basic method of raising awareness of this condition is publicly acknowledging it. It may be a small gesture, but every advertisement about autism has an effect on those who see it. Sharing one's concern about autism can awaken interest in the subject with others, opening a dialogue and sharing of information.

Social media is an excellent method for communicating knowledge about any subject, and autism is no exception. Something as simple as a status update or wall post on Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, LinkedIn, Google+, or any of the numerous other sites of this nature can speak volumes about their struggles with this condition. Providing links to one of the websites mentioned above can be a wonderful method of sharing the trials of raising an autistic child.

Many wonderful books about autism, and the special needs of those affected by it, are available, both in print and via Autism Digest are available both online and in print form. Some even offer back issues for free via email.

Most importantly for supportive members of an autistic individual is the community. Confusion and fear, caused by misunderstanding and negative media, can lead to a hostile environment in one's home and even workplace. Educating the member's of a community can be difficult, but not impossible. Providing informative pamphlets or fliers in a conspicuous spot, such as a community bulletin board or at the post office (with permission, of course), can open up new friendships and perhaps even support. Attending a council meeting to introduce oneself to the town is also an option. One could even host a party for neighbors, a “meet and greet” that allows those living nearby to get to know one's family and the needs of an autistic relative.

Finally, there is the national stage. Many autism support groups offer membership for a minimal fee, and provide educational materials to be shared. Much like social media, websites such as Youtube allow one to introduce the subject of autism to a wide audience. Online magazines often accept freelance articles, opening up the entire nation, and even the world, to one's views and experiences with autism.

Education is a tool, and the key to understanding and growth for an individual, a family, community, nation, and even the world. Spreading the word about Autism and those people directly affected by it is of benefit to all.

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