Today, let’s talk about autism. It’s a “taboo” subject for some, yet it shouldn’t be. We are in 2022, in an era where diversity and uniqueness should be perceived as a richness and not as a threat, a flaw, or a problem. Accepting and respecting others is also accepting and respecting oneself in a society where we are all so different and yet all alike. Martinique Airlocal is pleased to be able to address this societal issue with the LYANNAJ AUTISME association.
A warm welcome to the LYANNAJ AUTISME Association. Today we have with us Mr. Raymond ALERTE, its President, and Mrs. Péguy MONTABORD, its Vice-President.
I will initiate this interview with a series of questions – taboo for some – that are not necessarily asked out of fear, discomfort, or shame. It is time to break the ice and stop stigmatizing a portion of the population. Let’s talk openly and together about autism.
– Is autism considered a disease ?
– Not at all. Autism is not an illness, it is a neurodevelopmental disorder.
– Is autism considered a disability ?
– Autism has been recognized as a disability since 1996 when lawmakers sought to recognize the specific needs of people with autism. As a disability, people with autism are entitled to the same support as other people with disabilities. However, as a mother of a child with autism, I would say that autism can cause disabling situations for everyone. Although we can live with autism and adapt, it can create challenges and difficulties for people with autism and their families.
– Can autism be detected at any age ?
-Yes, indeed, autism can be detected at any age. You may have symptoms, pay attention to a baby, and see that there is a problem. So, consulting as soon as possible is a good idea. And then, children have the ability to adapt very well, so it can go unnoticed. Then in life, when you’re living your life normally, there may be moments where you notice rigidities, problems making contact with others, or selective eating habits. There are many small things like that which make you eventually start asking questions, even when the child is already a certain age. Many parents or even adults themselves wait for a long time before seeking a diagnosis.
– Does autism affect more men than women ?
– Boys, in particular, are much more affected than girls. Indeed, among these four people, one is an autistic girl and three are boys. Who knows why it is like this. On the other hand, girls are generally diagnosed much earlier than boys. They manage to slip through the cracks, adapt to life, manage school without much difficulty, and are diagnosed much later than boys, in general.
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