2 APRIL - WORLD AUTISM AWARENESS DAY

According to the WHO, 1 in 100 children in the world live with an autism spectrum disorder. Autism is the only disorder in child psychiatry whose number of cases is skyrocketing, and the Ministry of Health of Ukraine states that autism is now more common than Down syndrome.

According to statistics, 20,936 children with ASD were registered in Ukraine in 2024. Despite its rapid spread, there are still many false stereotypes about autism in society. We have collected and will try to debunk the most common myths about this disorder.

Myth: Children with autism do not want to communicate.
Fact: They do want to communicate, but they find it difficult. Often, this is due to sensory sensitivity, fear of being misunderstood, or the inability to express emotions in the usual way.

Myth: All children with autism are geniuses, like in the movies.
Fact: Some children with ASD have exceptional abilities, but most are normal children who perceive the world differently.

Myth: Autism is treatable.
Fact: It is not a disease. Autism is a condition that people live with. However, rehabilitation, therapy, corrective programmes, and support can make the lives of these children better and more fulfilling.

At the Charity Exchange "DobroDiy" we support children with ASD who undergo rehabilitation, learn to communicate, play, dream, and develop alongside their peers. Our aim is not to change them but to create conditions in which they can fulfil their potential.

Understanding helps too. Share this post if you believe in inclusion and unconditional goodness.

Support those who see the world differently but need love and opportunity: https://248.dp.ua/projects.