Autism acceptance day is on the 2nd of April. The theme for this year’s autism acceptance week is colour.

Here our colleague, Nicola Martin, who has been diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome and Hyperacusis, looks at why this week is so important.

World Autism Acceptance Week used to be known as World Autism Awareness Week. For me I think this is a good change. As more and more people are becoming aware of autism it is more about the challenge of being accepted.

Not being accepted leaves people feeling lonely and isolated. Unable to get out because fear and anxiety levels are off the scale. Missing out on learning social skills and how to interact with people.

To be accepted as an autistic person would have so many positive effects to mental and physical health. Having friends and social interaction. Getting out and exercising. Most of all getting out in general without all the fear and anxiety.

Help With Autism

There are many charities and organisations who can offer help, support and advice for autistic adults, young people, and children, as well as their families and carers.

Some of these are listed below with links to their websites:
National Autistic Society National Autistic Society (autism.org.uk)
Talkback UK
Ambitious About Autism  – A national charity for autistic children and young people
Child Autism UK
Autistica –  Resources which provides practical support for children and adults with autism.

World Autism Acceptance Week is a vital tool in not only raising awareness about autism, but also leading to acceptance. Both can lead to autistic people leading more independent, happier, prosperous lives and that is what we hope to someday achieve, a life of acceptance and inclusion in society. Here at Talkback we are pleased to be able to support this by raising awareness, of this very important week.

By Nicola Martin