There is no official data regarding the number of people on the autistic spectrum in Pakistan
ISLAMABAD: April 2 marks the World Autism Day, and it aims to raise awareness regarding the condition. The Autism Society of Pakistan and many other NGOs and psychologists hold seminars and events for this purpose to mark the day.
Even the Prime Minister sent out a tweet on the day and promised to introduce policies that would be more inclusive of people who are autistic. This recognition of the need to include autistic adults and children into the mainstream is much needed and most welcome. To this date, many people are unaware of the condition and children are often termed as mentally ill.
In reality, autism is a neuro-developmental disorder, which hampers a child’s communication, socialisation and cognitive skills. It is usually detected between the ages of 18 months to three years, and its severity is gauged by where the child lies on the autistic spectrum.
An early diagnosis means early intervention, which often results in remarkable improvement. It is important to note that children on the spectrum often have very high IQs and excel in mathematics and arts. Unfortunately, due to lack of awareness and initiatives by the government, they do not have access to many opportunities.
In fact, there is no official data regarding the number of people on the spectrum in the country. I expect the PM to deliver on his promise so that we do not lose out on the beautiful world that people on the spectrum see.
- Lubna Mariam, Islamabad
Published in The Express Tribune, April 5th, 2019.
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