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April is Autism Acceptance Month: Supporting Neurodiversity and the Whole Person

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Autism Acceptance Month celebrates the unique strengths of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) while promoting understanding and support for their needs. ASD affects 1 in 36 children and an estimated five million adults in the U.S. Many face co-occurring mental and physical conditions, requiring holistic care to support their overall wellbeing.

Why acceptance matters

Acceptance creates opportunities and builds a sense of belonging. When individuals with autism are accepted and supported:

  • Early intervention becomes possible. Diagnosing autism early enables access to therapies, such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), that improve communication and social skills, promoting independence and meaningful connections.
  • Barriers are broken down. Approximately 85% of adults with autism are unemployed or underemployed. Increased awareness and support can help overcome challenges in education, employment and healthcare, creating opportunities for inclusion and success.

Why co-occurring conditions matter

Co-occurring conditions often significantly impact the lives of individuals with ASD.

  • Physical health conditions, such as gastrointestinal issues, epilepsy and sleep disorders, affect approximately 50 – 70% of children with ASD.
  • Mental health conditions, like anxiety, depression and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), impact up to 80% of adults with ASD.

Addressing these co-occurring conditions in tandem with ASD improves quality of life, strengthens relationships and promotes greater independence.

How you can make a difference

  • Learn: Educate yourself about autism and co-occurring conditions.
  • Advocate: Promote participation in schools, workplaces and communities.
  • Amplify: Celebrate the strengths and perspectives of individuals with ASD.

Together, we can create a world that embraces neurodiversity, fosters acceptance and empowers individuals with ASD to thrive.

Visit MagellanHealthcare.com/Autism-Resources for more information and helpful resources.