Gary says... Although there may be struggles and challenges, Autism is celebrated daily by the parents and supporters to build a natural healthy lifestyle for those affected.
Introduction: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a Neuro-developmental condition that affects individuals' social communication skills and behaviour. The impact of autism within our communities extends beyond the individual diagnosed and significantly affects their immediate and extended whānau (family) in many different ways, both positive and negative. Levin Family Health highlights the various ways in which autism affects whānau within our communities.
Emotional Impact: The diagnosis of autism can evoke a range of emotions within the whānau, including shock, grief, and anxiety. The realization that their child may face unique challenges in life often leads to heightened levels of stress and uncertainty for parents and caregivers. Additionally, the ongoing emotional demands of supporting a child with autism can strain familial relationships and impact the overall well-being of whānau members.
Financial Burden: Autism-related interventions and therapies can place a significant financial burden on whānau. These expenses may include specialized educational support, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and behavioral interventions. The cost of these services, coupled with potential income loss due to increased caregiving responsibilities, can create financial strain for families, particularly for those with limited resources.
Limited Social Opportunities: Whānau raising a child with autism often face challenges in accessing social opportunities. Children with autism may experience difficulty in engaging in social interactions, which can lead to isolation from peer groups and limited participation in community activities. This isolation can extend to the whānau, who may find it challenging to attend social gatherings or connect with other families due to the unique needs of their child.
Navigating Support Systems: Whānau must navigate a complex support system to access appropriate services and resources for their child with autism. Understanding the available support, advocating for their child's needs, and coordinating various interventions can be overwhelming for whānau members who may already be experiencing emotional and financial strain.
Autism profoundly impacts whānau, affecting their emotional well-being, finances, social opportunities, and access to support systems. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach that includes accessible and affordable interventions, increased awareness and acceptance within communities, and the provision of robust support systems to empower whānau in their journey of supporting individuals with autism. By fostering inclusive environments and providing appropriate support, we all can work towards enhancing the quality of life for individuals with autism and their whānau.
Please speak to our staff if there are any challenges we can help with.
References:
Internet Safety Guide for People with Autism Spectrum Disorder (wizcase.com)
