What is World Autism Awareness Day?

According to Autism Speaks, April 2nd is a day to break down misconceptions and stigma surrounding autism, promote early diagnosis and intervention, and champion the rights and well-being of autistic individuals. It is also a time to celebrate the diverse perspectives and strengths that autistic individuals bring to their communities. In recognition of World Autism Awareness Day, we are sharing key facts, strengths, and therapy support through an attachment-based lens to foster deeper understanding and meaningful support. We remain committed to honoring, uplifting, and advocating for our neurodivergent community.

Facts : World Autism Awareness Day

1. All autistic people are different

2. According to the CDC, 1 in 36 children in the U.S. are diagnosed with autism, and the prevalence has been rising over the years. This increase is largely due to improved awareness and diagnostic criteria. We can assume this number is even higher, with those who underreport, or are unaware.

3. Autism is often under-diagnosed in women, people of color, and those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.

4. Many autistic individuals face challenges in the educational system, such as lack of proper accommodations, overstretched special education services, and educational environments that don't recognize their unique learning needs.

5. Despite having the skills and abilities, autistic individuals often face significant barriers to employment. A report by the Autism Society found that nearly 85% of autistic adults are either unemployed or underemployed, despite many being highly skilled and qualified for certain jobs.

6. Autistic individuals experience mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, and OCD at higher rates than the general population. However, they often face difficulties accessing appropriate mental health care.

Empowering Neurodivergent Minds

World Autism Awareness Day provides a moment to amplify support, awareness, and advocacy for the autistic community—but one day is not enough.

True inclusion comes from extending awareness into acceptance, celebration, and meaningful support every day. As we continue this shift, let’s remind our autistic folx of the affirmations and truths that honor their unique minds and the invaluable perspectives they bring to the world.

Attachment Based Therapy and Neurodivergent Folx

This year for World Autism Awareness Day, the neurodivergent community is advocating for more than just awareness—fighting for fostering true acceptance, understanding, and meaningful support. If you are exploring Autism or identify with any condition that falls under the neurodivergent umbrella, consider seeking support from a therapist with an attachment-based lens. Attachment-based therapy offers a compassionate, relational approach to healing by providing a safe space to explore emotions, process past experiences, and build meaningful connections. Here are a few (but not limited to) goals that can be explored in therapy:

1. Explore emotions in a safe space

2. Explore how neurodivergence or past traumas shape self-perception

3. Learn co-regulation skills before moving toward self-regulation

4. Identify repeating interpersonal patterns that may cause distress

5. Explore early attachment patterns and helps reframe past experiences

6. Explore barriers to emotional vulnerability and trust

7. Strengthen the ability to form and maintain healthy, reciprocal connections

8. Support unmasking and comfortability with authentic self

Connecting with the Neurodivergent Community:

Connecting with others who share similar experiences can be incredibly empowering. Online and local support groups, advocacy organizations, and social communities for neurodivergent folks offer spaces to share stories, advice, and resources.

Seeking a Diagnosis:

If you suspect that you may be neurodivergent, seeking a professional diagnosis can provide clarity. A diagnosis can be an important step in accessing appropriate support and accommodations. However, it’s important to discuss with your therapist if a diagnosis would be helpful or necessary in your case.

If you’re not sure an official diagnosis is for you, taking one of the screeners here can be a helpful place to start.

Seeking Support

If you are looking for a therapist to support you in your journey, we have multiple neurodiversity affirming therapists trained and ready to provide the highest quality of care.