70 million people worldwide suffer from autism!

They can see but seldom take the initiative to look at others, and they can hear but don't love contact with the outside world.

April 2nd is "World Autism Day".

Let us once again speak out for the plight of people with autism and create a more inclusive society for them.

Solitude: Who will polish that "window"?

The little Iraqi boy Samir always likes to lie on the railing of his balcony and stay for several hours.

Since he was a child with autism, he would wave to passing vehicles and watch other children playing, but rarely went out to communicate with them.

Autism, also known as autism, is a lifelong neurological disease that begins in childhood.

According to United Nations data, as of now, there are probably more than 70 million people suffering from autism in the world.

The cause of autism is still unknown.

Silence, alienation, isolation.

In a short documentary filmed by Benjamin, an autistic patient, he always likes to ask other people, "Can I call you?" All the interviewees responded with a smile: "Of course!"

After hearing the answer, Benjamin couldn't help but smile happily.

Helpless: COVID-19 exacerbates dilemma

The cruel reality is that for a long time, many autistic patients have suffered unequal treatment in education and medical treatment.

At the moment, in Nova Scotia, Canada, some parents are worried that the epidemic will have a "destructive" impact on their children with autism.

Because these children should be treated with a one-year early intensive behavioral intervention program before they formally enter school.

Can the children adapt to school life? How can we help them make more friends and not be discriminated against and bullied by others? Will they never confide in their inner thoughts? The feeling of helplessness weighed on the parents.

An investigation by The Wall Street Journal also showed that under the new crown epidemic, due to the lack of relevant medical professionals , it is particularly difficult to diagnose and treat patients with intellectual development disorders such as autism .

"The epidemic and its impact on society put autistic patients at great risk.

Hope: exploring challenges and opportunities

The problems faced by autistic patients don't stop there.
Because core obstacles accompany life, many people grow up to adulthood, and after entering society, they may still be "difficult to move an inch.
"

An American mother, Alexandra, said that her son with autism is smart and willing to work, but his senses are more sensitive than ordinary people and his social style is also special.
"This means that the traditional working environment is always difficult for him.
"

Continuous conversations with others may make him feel anxious, and noise and fluorescent lights in the work environment may also cause him a burden.

How can we help autistic patients better integrate into social life? To this end, the United Nations will hold an online event themed "Inclusiveness in the Workplace: Challenges and Opportunities in the Post-epidemic World" on April 8, 2021, to hold group discussions with people with autism spectrum disorder.

The United Nations pointed out that under the epidemic, new ways of working, including remote work and the use of new technologies, have created opportunities for people with autism.
For example, using social software to work at home, their social pressure can be greatly eased.

Hand in hand: never give up every "TA"

Although there is still no known cure for autism, we should understand this disease more deeply and systematically, let alone give up every "TA" that needs help!

——How early can it be found that children are suffering from Autism Spectrum Disorder?

It is difficult to find out before one year old, but the diagnosis can usually be made by two years old.

The characteristics of the disease include delayed or temporary regression of language and social skills development, and the appearance of repetitive stereotyped behavior patterns.

——How to help people with autism?

Parents can help ensure that children receive health services and education, and provide a caring and encouraging environment.

The society should provide children and their families with relevant information, services, referrals and practical support that meet their respective needs.
Evidence-based psychosocial interventions, such as behavioral therapy and parent skills training programs.

Governments of various countries can increase investment in publicity and treatment of autism, and make the physical, social and public opinion environment more convenient, inclusive and supportive.

May all children from the "stars" be treated with tenderness, grow up healthily, and realize their "star language wish"