World Autism Day丨Xingguang is not a "survival on a lonely island": meet in understanding and walk together in care!

April 2 is the "World Autism Awareness Day" designated by the United Nations General Assembly. It is also called "World Autism Day" in China. Whether we have come into contact with autistic and lonely people in our daily lives, this day reminds us that love and understanding can change the fate of many families. For ordinary people, the lows, failures and loneliness in life are not far away. How can we get out of these challenges and accumulate strength again? The answer may be hidden in our concern for others and the warmth we show to each other.

1. Autism and autism: What are they?

Many people may feel unfamiliar or confused when they hear "autism" or "autism". In fact, these two words refer to a neurodevelopmental disorder, medically known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Simply put, autism is not a disease, but a unique way of thinking and behaving. A study published in The Lancet showed that autistic individuals may have unique challenges in social interaction, communication and repetitive behaviors, but they may also show amazing talents in certain areas, such as memory, art or mathematics.

Around the world, more and more children are diagnosed with autism. The 2023 report "Prevalence and Characteristics of Autism Spectrum Disorder in 8-Year-Olds" pointed out that in the United States, about 1% of 8-year-olds have autism. These children and their families also face tremendous pressure and misunderstandings in life. Many people will ask: Why are they "different"? Why are they called "star children"? . . . . . . In fact, this is because our brains process information differently, just like each of us has our own personality.

2. Loneliness: The invisible challenge of autism

Autism is not just about being "different", it is often accompanied by loneliness. A 2014 study in The Lancet found that autistic individuals may have difficulty establishing social relationships, such as not being good at reading other people's expressions or having difficulty initiating conversations. This can make them feel isolated. A 2015 study published in Perspectives in Psychological Science revealed an astonishing fact: loneliness and social isolation are not only a psychological burden, but may also increase health risks and even affect life expectancy.

Imagine a child or adult who longs to be understood but is misunderstood and abandoned because of communication barriers; a family who works day and night for their child's special needs but does not receive enough social support. This loneliness is sometimes not only reflected in autistic individuals, but also in the indifference of their families and society. A study in "The Latest Views in Psychiatry" pointed out that even after growing up, autistic individuals still face challenges in employment, social interaction and independent living. Their loneliness may also be a mirror of social tolerance and indifference.

3. Caring starts with understanding

So, what can we do?

The first is understanding. Understand that autism is not a "disease" but a diversity, just like everyone has a unique personality and talent. Autistic children may not be good at eye contact, but their inner world may be extremely rich; they may repeat certain behaviors, but this may also be their way of finding a sense of security and order.

The second is action. April 2, "World Autism Awareness Day" is not just a slogan, but also an opportunity for everyone to take action. For example, providing more support for autistic families, encouraging and building an inclusive educational environment, or simply being more patient with a child who is different from others, these small changes may light up the hope of each family.

4. Everyone has their lows, but we are not an island

To be honest, the experiences of the autistic community are actually similar to those of ordinary people. Have we all experienced the frustration after failure? Have we also felt the loneliness and chill in the middle of the night? Or even the regret after being scammed?

How to get out of the trough. Research also tells us that social support and understanding are the key to getting out of loneliness. For autistic people and their families, external care is like a lamp that illuminates their way forward; for each of us, lending a helping hand sometimes not only helps others, but also warms ourselves.

5. Stay optimistic and take action

Unhappiness or bad luck may come, but love and hope can also be born from everyone's heart. On April 2, let us remember this day and bring understanding and action into every day. No matter when and where, applauding children with autism and sending a warm word to the lonely brave around you is also contributing to this inclusive society.

Finally, please remember: No one is an island. We may all fall, but as long as we reach out, we can always find the strength to stand up again. Hopefully, let love become our common language, and let every autistic and lonely person and family feel the warmth of this society.

References:

1. Lord, C., Elsabbagh, M., Baird, G., & Veenstra-Vanderweele, J. (2018). Autism spectrum disorders. Lancet, 392(10146), 508-520. DOI: 10.1016/S0140-6736(18)31129-2

2. Maenner, MJ, Shaw, KA, Bakian, AV, et al. (2023). Prevalence and characteristics of autism spectrum disorders in 8-year-old children. MMWR Surveillance Abstracts, 72(2), 1-14. DOI: 10.15585/mmwr.ss7202a1

3. Holt-Lunstad, J., Smith, TB, Baker, M., Harris, T., & Stephenson, D. (2015). Loneliness and social isolation as risk factors for mortality: A meta-analytic review. Perspectives in Psychological Science, 10(2), 227-237. DOI: 10.1177/1745691614568352

4. Lai, MC, Lombardo, MV, & Baron-Cohen, S. (2014). Autism. Lancet, 383(9920), 896-910. DOI: 10.1016/S0140-6736(13)61539-1

5. Howlin, P., & Magiati, I. (2017). Autism spectrum disorders: Outcomes in adulthood. Current Opinion in Psychiatry, 30(2), 69-76. DOI: 10.1097/YCO.00000000000000308