THE IMPACT OF AUTISM

Autism is a fascinating subject, except when it invades your family. Like an unwelcome guest, a diagnosis of Autism can swoop into your lives and change them forever.

• The emotional impact of Autism is very difficult and sometimes devastating to people with Autism and the families who are affected.
• The world of Autism is a confusing and lonely place that knows no social rules.
• For the family of a child with Autism, life is stressful. Parents and siblings often cope with unyielding challenging behaviour and, very often, sleep deprivation.
• Children and adults with Autism find it difficult to cope in social situations and therefore, families become isolated.
• Parents are usually the primary caretaker and often fear what will happen to their children when they die.
• The stress to family life can lead to relationship breakdown, divorce and, in extreme, circumstances suicide.
• Parents have difficulty in placing their children in schools and homes due to the lack of facilities available.

WHAT IS AUTISM?

Autism is a life-long brain disorder that is usually diagnosed in early childhood.

• Autism is a spectrum disorder varying in symptoms, severity and impact. Each person with Autism presents themselves differently.
• Some people with Autism demonstrate significantly challenging behaviours and most need specialist support and care.
• People with Autism have difficulty communicating, forming relationships with others and making sense of the world around them.
• Autism affects 1 in 158 children and affects people of all racial, ethnic & socio-economic backgrounds.