I asked my friend Everett (not his real name) what he would want me to tell people about persons with autism. “Tell them that I am not dumb.”
People have called Everett many things over the years. Weird. Ignorant. Stupid. Kids bullied him because he was different. Due to the bullying, Everett had a difficult time in school. Since Everett did not fit into any existing category, it was decided that Everett would finish school from home with the help of a tutor. Funding was cut for the tutor and Everett was not able to finish school. This made Everett feel like he didn’t matter.
When Everett was in his mid fifties, he started seeing a therapist. Soon after, he had a diagnosis: Autism Spectrum Disorder.
According to the Autism Awareness Centre, Autism Spectrum Disorder is a lifelong, nonprogressive neurological disorder typically appearing before the age of three years. The word “autism” means a developmental disability significantly affecting verbal and non-verbal communication and social interaction.
Interventions to help with autism include:
- Behavior therapy
- Speech-language therapy
- Play-based therapy
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Nutritional therapy
- Family training
- Educational therapies
- Other therapies such as sensory integration therapy, music therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy
More information about Autism Spectrum Disorder can be found at the following:
American Psychiatric Organization
Center for Disease Control and Prevention
For Everett and all others with Autism Spectrum Disorder,
let’s spread awareness.
