By: Farah Standley

 

National Autism Awareness Month takes place during the month of April. It was created to raise awareness and help to encourage change in schools and communities. Some symptoms of Autism are finding it hard to understand what others are thinking or feeling, not getting social “rules” or “cues”, anxiety about social situations, finding it hard to make friends or preferring to be alone, acting blunt, rude, or uninterested in other people unintentionally, finding it hard to express how you feel, taking things very literally or not picking up sarcasm, and not liking change or trying new things especially when it comes to schedule. An interesting fact is that women tend to hide it better. They show fewer signs, hide their feelings more, and seem to cope better.

During Autism Awareness Month, people thank and show appreciation for people in their lives who have Autism. On April 2, various buildings, homes, and communities are lit up blue to support. Fundraisers and walks are held throughout the month to raise money or show support as well. It is so important that we promote kindness and equality for people who live with Autism. People also engage in hands-on activities from home, reading books about Autism, or simply joining the conversation online. We all need to come together to put an end to the bullying of children and adults with Autism. Happy Autism Awareness Month!