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Autism Spectrum Disorder is a developmental disability that occurs in children during the first 5 years and tends to persist into adulthood. It affects the social and communication skills and behavioural development of the child. Early identification of autism is important so that special care and attention can be given to affected children as early as possible. Studies estimate that 1 in 160 children are affected by autism disorder and the prevalence of this disorder seems to be increasing.

The cause of autism disorders is attributed to many factors including genetic and environmental factors. Once a child with autism is identified, the family and caretaker of the child should be given proper consultation, services, referrals, and practical support, according to the individual needs. At present, there is no cure for autism but psychological interventions such as behavioural treatment and skills training programmes can reduce difficulties in communication and social interaction. The needs of people with autism are quite complex and require a range of integrated services. It includes healthcare, rehabilitation services, education, employment, and social care.

A person with autism is often negatively affected in terms of education, employment, and social attainments. The disability of autism differs from person to person. Some people with autism can manage to lead their life independently while others require support from others for entire life. The person with autism and his/her family are mostly under stress due to emotional and economic burdens.

The major issues that an autistic person face is discrimination and deprivation of basic facilities like education, medical care, and employment. Autism becomes detrimental not only for the children but also for their parents. Taking care of an autistic child requires additional focus and care and it becomes full-time work for them. Apart from this, constant judgement, discrimination, and lack of understanding of autism from friends and families create stressful and alienated situations.

All of us should understand that an autistic child requires love, affection, extra care, and attention and not ignorance and alienation. The worst part about autism is society treats the autistic child as a burden. Autistic children may have verbal or behavioural issues, but that doesn't mean that they can't achieve great heights. Given proper care and support, autistic children will also shine in both personal and professional life. Most autistic children with communication problems are visual learners. Visual aids and activities may be used to educate them. Children with autism may have special talents.

Parents and caretakers must closely observe such children and help them in developing their talent. Children with autism are more prone to psychological effects, anger, violence, and frustration. So those children must be showered with love, support and should be observed for changes in behaviour. Society should try to understand the pain and struggle of the parents with an autistic child and act accordingly with humanity. Humanity lies in accepting differences and encouraging, and not in discrimination and ignorance.

Many successful personalities in this world have autism-like Hans Christian Andersen, Susan Boyle, Tim Burton, Charles Darwin, Bill Gates, Albert Einstein, William Butler Yeats, Nikola Tesla, Sir Isaac Newton, Emily Dickinson, and Dan Aykroyd. Let us all treat children and adults with autism equally with care and affection and provide them with opportunities to grow.