April 2 is World Autism Awareness Day — a day when organizations around the world celebrate through powerful fundraising and special events. Autism and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are complex neurological disorders that impair social interaction and communication.
This year’s theme is Employment: The Autism Advantage. It’s estimated that more than 80-percent of adults with autism are unemployed. Research suggests that employers are missing out on abilities that people on the autism spectrum have in greater abundance than “neurotypical” workers do – such as, heightened abilities in pattern recognition and logical reasoning, as well as a greater attention to detail.
This year’s campaign is meant to help improve the quality of life of children and adults, who are affected by autism, so they can lead full and meaningful lives.
It’s also estimated that one in 68 babies born in the United States have a type of autism. So, how can you help? Light It Up Blue is just one of many organizations that cater to celebrating World Autism Awareness Day by encouraging people to embrace the color blue in honor of autism awareness.
You can dress in blue clothes, use blue accessories, or light up your office or school blue and use social media with #LIUB to share your experiences and support. While raising awareness is important, another great way to make a difference is by making a donation to autism research or charities. If you know someone affected by Autism then it may be worth reading about symptoms and treatments, such as auditory integration training for autism, to help you understand more about the disability.
