April 2, has been set aside worldwide to bring awareness to persons with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

ASD is a condition that impacts how a person perceives and socializes with others, and in many cases causes problems in social interaction and communication. Many persons need to be able to have routines in their lives to be able to function effectively. The theme for this year’s World Autism Awareness Day is ‘The Transition To Adulthood’.

According to Beverly Leblanc of the Achievement Learning Center(ALC) which caters to children who may have ASD and other similar conditions, “The transition to adulthood is very challenging and more so for those with Autism. Persons living with ASD are in need of more support and opportunities for education, vocational training, suitable employment and more options for social inclusion and independent living”.

She said further, “COVID-19 has presented an increased psychological impact on the lives of persons with ASD making the transition to adulthood even more challenging for them. For the children with Autism, their lives have been disrupted because they are unable to follow their usual routines and this has put additional pressure on the parents, as they try to cope with the challenges of raising a child with Autism. Even during this time, let us pause to reflect on the increased psychosocial effects of COVID-19 on the lives of person with Autism Spectrum Disorder and the relevant support that they need”.

“My hope is that after this crisis is over, we can enact policies, legislation, programs and the necessary mechanisms to help children with special needs ,particularly those with Autism, live healthy lives so that they can be functional in society.”