April is World Autism Acceptance Month
World Autism Acceptance Month is dedicated to celebrating autistic people and promoting understanding, inclusion, and respect.
This year’s focus is on stopping the misinformation about autism and neurodiversity.
What is Autism?
Autism is a lifelong difference in how a person’s brain works.
You’ll have heard autism described as a spectrum – it affects everyone differently.
Autistic people may:
- Communicate in different ways
- Prefer routines or familiar environments
- Have strong interests or passions
- Be sensitive to sounds, lights, or textures
- ‘Mask’ or hide autistic traits to try to fit in.
Autism is not something that needs to be “fixed”. It is a natural variation in how people think and experience the world.
Moving from Awareness to Acceptance
In the past, campaigns focused on “awareness”. Today, the focus is on acceptance and inclusion.
Acceptance means:
- Understanding that different ways of thinking are valid
- Valuing autistic people for who they are
- Removing barriers that make everyday life harder
World Autism Acceptance Month encourages communities, schools, and workplaces to be more inclusive. The aim is to create environments where everyone feels they belong.
Many autistic people mask their autism. This means they try to hide their natural behaviours to fit in. This can be tiring and stressful. Over time, it may lead to exhaustion, burnout, or mental health problems.
Why Acceptance and Inclusion Matter
Autistic people can face barriers in many areas of life, including education, healthcare, and employment.
Lack of understanding can lead to:
- Social isolation
- Anxiety and stress
- Difficulty accessing services
Creating a more accepting society helps improve health, wellbeing, and opportunities for autistic people.
Common Myths
There are many myths about autism. Understanding the facts helps build acceptance. Here are some common examples, from the North East Autism Society:
- Autism can be cured – Myth. Autism is not a disease. It is a natural variation in how the brain works.
- Only boys are autistic – Myth. Autism affects people of all genders.
- Autistic people lack empathy – Myth. Some may find social situations harder, but this does not mean they lack empathy.
- Autistic people cannot make eye contact – Myth. This varies from person to person.
- Autistic children are just naughty – Myth. Behaviour is often linked to overwhelm, communication needs, or sensory differences.
Autism and Healthcare – How We Can Help
Healthcare settings can feel overwhelming for autistic people. Simple changes can make a big difference, please let us know what would help.
These are called reasonable adjustments. It’s your legal right to ask for changes that make it easier for you to use services and take part in your care.
We want everyone to get the care they need. Speak to us or complete our reasonable adjustments request form.
Examples of things we can help with include:
- More time during appointments
- A call before your appointment to explain what will happen
- Easy-read letters and information
- Seeing the same clinician where possible
- Support from carers or family
- Flexible appointment times
- Quieter rooms if needed
These changes help you take part in your care, understand what is happening, and make decisions about your health.
Support and Further Information
If you or someone you love is autistic, there’s lots of help available:
- National Autistic Society – Advice and support for autistic people and families.
- North East Autism Society – A charity who empower autistic and neurodivergent children, young people and adults
- Skills for People – Groups and support in the North East.
- Lifeways – Helping autistic adults live independently.
- Inspired Support – Supporting autistic people through art, music, and sports.
- Diversity NE – Helping autistic people in the workplace.
Autism acceptance is about everyday actions. Small changes can make a big difference in helping people feel understood and supported.