Go Blue for Autism

Autism. An often misunderstood condition.

April 2 is World Autism Awareness Day. It’s also the start of Autism Awareness Month in Australia and Autism Queensland’s annual Go Blue for Autism campaign.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is the name for a number of neurodevelopmental disorders. The symptoms cover a wide range, hence the term, ‘spectrum’.

Not all is as it appears with those affected by the neurodevelopmental disorder. That ‘naughty’ child throwing a tantrum at the store may not be throwing a tantrum because they were told “no” by their parent. That child may have just been completely overwhelmed. Too many different noises, incredibly bright lights, a situation that is very different to any situation they’ve ever experienced.

ASD is a complex, lifelong developmental disability that affects a person’s ability to communicate, interact with others and cope in everyday situations. Tasks such as getting ready in the mornings, may seem very daunting, whereas for other people it’s usually not an issue. Every person with ASD is different to another and has their own way of seeing the world, which makes them interesting and unique.
When someone has ASD, it means that their brains are wired differently to other people. But, as we know, no two brains are the same and this certainly still applies to individuals who are on the spectrum.

So, how you can tell someone is autistic by looking at them?
You can’t.

People with ASD can find it much harder to interact socially and to communicate effectively with others. As they often have difficulty understanding what other people are feeling and what interests others, they might say the wrong thing. They might talk for a long time about a topic they really like, as they are unaware that the topic is of little interest to others. One of my children, who is on the spectrum, can sit and talk for hours on end about the Titanic.

They may not use gestures and body language in the way that other people do. For example they may not use eye contact and may not smile. However, their ability to communicate can vary tremendously, with some people with Autism having no or limited speech, and others having extensive vocabularies. Although people with ASD can find it difficult to talk to people and make friends, they still have the same emotions as anybody else and love to have friends, even if it’s harder for them
than most.

People with ASD also like things to happen the same way. They might take the same route to school or the shops, or line up their toys in a particular order. If something is out of place or if routines change without warning, they can get upset or worried.

They may also be bothered by sudden loud sounds, bright lights or unexpected touch, that does not bother others. They may become upset if someone hugs them or talks too quickly or loudly. They often have intense interests in particular topics and may be extremely knowledgeable about their special interest areas. They can also have an amazing memory for detail.

The cause of autism is not fully understood, but structured early intervention, therapy and education delivered by professionals with expertise in ASD can make a significant difference
in their lives.

Autism Queensland’s annual Go Blue for Autism campaign is when the public is called upon to help raise awareness, and funds to help us support people living with ASD and their families, by holding an event or attending one being held in their local community.

There is also a great range of merchandise available for purchase from the eShop for individuals and businesses. (Schools and community groups can apply to sell Go Blue for Autism merchandise on consignment (approval conditions apply) when they register their event. To make a purchase or register your event, head to www.goblueforautism.com.au

In 2018, all funds raised through Go Blue for Autism will help Autism Queensland provide education, therapy and support services for children and adults living with autism. To learn more about the vital work Autism Queensland provides, visit  www.autismqld.com.au