April 2021 PSA: Autism Awareness

April is Autism Awareness Month

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder characterized by differences in social interaction and communication as well as the presence of restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior, interest, or activities. People who have ASD may experience a range of symptoms and characteristics. Some people may have very noticeable characteristics, others may not. ASD may be diagnosed as early as 18 to 24 months but can be diagnosed at any age. The earlier treatment and intervention begins, the more effective the outcomes.

There is no one way to be autistic. Some autistic people can speak, and some autistic people need to communicate in other ways. Some autistic people also have intellectual disabilities, and some autistic people do not. Some autistic people need a lot of help in their day-to-day lives, and some autistic people only need a little help.

MAPA recommends the following resources to learn more: 

• Autistic Self Advocacy Network
• Minnesota Autism Resource Portal