Support for Sufferers on the Spectrum

Charities. They seem to pop up like daisies wherever one looks. And they all represent something different. One can hardly step outside or turn on their television set without seeing an advertisement for a call to donate to breast cancer or Make-A-Wish kids.

But there are the charities and causes that not many talk about. One such cause is autism research. While cancer and terminal illness in childhood is very bad, a diagnosis of autism is hardly a walk in the park either. While cancer can be treated and the quality of life for terminal illnesses made decent depending on the illness, autistic people are stuck with their condition for life. And while certain parts of it can be treated, it is something that those diagnosed with it are stuck with for life. Autism is such a complex condition that it can be next to impossible to really understand it.

Perhaps that is why many advocates for autism awareness are so vocal about their cause. Because it is so difficult to understand, those that don’t often make gross underestimations and assumptions about autism, and those that are diagnosed with it. Often times, these assumptions can make life difficult for people on the autism spectrum.

“My son was affected at a local pool where the police were involved. And it didn’t have a real reason or cause for that. But ultimately, we did get the charges dropped. So I just wanted to bring awareness to other people in the community of what autism is, and some of the characteristics.” Mandy Beavers said of one negative experience.

Colorful campaign display for autism awareness

However, there are ways of helping those on the spectrum. In spite of the relative lack of publicity they get compared to others, charities, support groups, and help centers for those on the spectrum. There are also a number of fundraising events to bring in money for research and sensitivity training into autism and how to deal with those afflicted with it.

“I had a son with autism. So I got educated pretty quickly! I also had a background of volunteering with individuals with developmental disabilities as a teenager.” Claire Dees said.

Other forms of help include exposure in media. Showing characters with autism on television shows and movies can help to show others the nuances of autism. How they think and feel in comparison to neurotypical people. Prominent examples include the 2016 Ben Affleck movie The Accountant and the Netflix reality show Love on the Spectrum.

Trailer for the latest season of Netflix's Love on the Spectrum

Exposure in media, both in the realm of fiction and nonfiction, has helped to normalize interactions with people on the spectrum. Nonfiction exposure in particular has helped to dispel many of the more negative stereotypes about autism. These shows show autistic people as just that, people. People with hopes, dreams, aspirations, relationships, and nearly everything else a neurotypical person has.

Events and fundraisers also go a long way in helping those on the spectrum. Everything from gatherings of other autistics in friendship to raising money through events like running marathons. Many of these events are designed to help the autistic community, in one way or another. Some are designed to help people on the spectrum find support, comfort, friendship, and possibly love amongst each other. Other such events are designed to raise money for autism awareness and research. As stated, autism is a complex condition, and very little is known about what causes it or why it affects each person in a different way. All that is truly known about autism is what the statistics and medical experts say. Even then, it's hardly as much as other conditions.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, autism will affect one in 36 children born. As cases continue to rise, so too does the need for research and understanding.

But perhaps that is the best way to help. Understanding. Knowing what their quirks are and how to handle them. Being a friend. Showing support in their lowest moments. Being there when others won’t be. Perhaps that is all that can be done, but it is enough for many. A friend can mean more to a person than any amount of research and development.

“Whenever you can, advocate for yourself and live your truth. We live in a society where those in power actively make it difficult for us to be our true authentic self. We should oppose these ideas/systems as much as we can. I’d also be wary of people pushing “cures” or other harmful ideas. The path to healing started with self-acceptance.” Janelle Quilici said of advice she would give to others on the spectrum.