April is Autism Spectrum Month, a time to raise awareness about autism and celebrate the unique talents and abilities of people on the autism spectrum. Autism, according to the CDC, also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. It is estimated that 1 in 54 children in the United States has autism, and the prevalence of autism has been increasing in recent years.

Here are some reasons why we should celebrate Autism Spectrum Month:

• Celebrating the diversity of the human experience: Autism is a natural variation of the human brain, and people on the autism spectrum have unique strengths and abilities that should be recognized and celebrated.

• Raising awareness and reducing stigma: Autism is often misunderstood and stigmatized, and Autism Spectrum Month provides an opportunity to educate the public about autism and promote acceptance and inclusion.

• Supporting autism research: There is still much we don't know about autism, and research is needed to better understand the causes, treatments, and interventions for autism.

Notable figures who are on the autism spectrum:

• Temple Grandin: A world-renowned animal behaviorist and autism advocate, Temple Grandin has used her unique perspective as a person on the autism spectrum to revolutionize the livestock industry and improve animal welfare. She has also written several books about autism and given numerous lectures and interviews to promote awareness and understanding of autism.

• Dan Aykroyd: A famous actor and comedian, Dan Aykroyd has been open about his diagnosis. He has used his platform to raise awareness about autism and advocate for better support and services for people on the autism spectrum.

• Daryl Hannah: An actress and environmental activist, Daryl Hannah has also been open about her autism diagnosis. She has used her platform to promote autism awareness and advocate for environmental causes.

• Satoshi Tajiri: The creator of the popular video game franchise Pokemon, Satoshi Tajiri has been open about his diagnosis of Autism. He has credited his autism with helping him create the intricate world and characters of Pokemon.

Fun facts about these individuals:

• Temple Grandin's designs for more humane livestock handling systems are used in over half of the cattle processing facilities in the United States.

• Dan Aykroyd has described being autistic as a "superpower" that has helped him in his career, allowing him to hyperfocus on his work and remember lines and jokes easily.

• Daryl Hannah has been arrested multiple times for participating in environmental protests, including protesting the construction of the Keystone XL pipeline.

• Satoshi Tajiri was inspired to create Pokemon by his childhood love of collecting insects. The name "Pokemon" is short for "Pocket Monsters.

Supporting the Mental Health and Well-Being for those Who Are Neurodiverse

General guidance and recommendations are shifting from “changing,” and individual who is neurodiverse but rather supporting those who are neurodiverse in the case they are experiencing underlying other psychiatric concerns such as anxiety or depression.

Research has shown that individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are at a higher risk for anxiety and depression than the general population. Estimates suggest that up to 40% of individuals with ASD also experience symptoms of anxiety, and up to 50% experience symptoms of depression. However, it is important to note that these estimates can vary depending on the specific population being studied and the methods used to assess symptoms of anxiety and depression.

It is also important to recognize that anxiety and depression can manifest differently in individuals with ASD than in the general population. For example, individuals with ASD may have difficulty identifying and expressing their emotions, which can make it challenging to diagnose and treat anxiety and depression. Additionally, social and communication challenges associated with ASD can contribute to feelings of anxiety and depression, as individuals with ASD may feel isolated and struggle to connect with others.

Given the high prevalence of anxiety and depression in individuals with ASD, it is important for psychiatrists and psychologist to aid individuals in detecting if they may be neurodiverse while also providing nuanced care and support for anxiety, depression, or other psychiatric concerns.

Treatment Options for Anxiety and Depression

Treatment options for individuals with autism who also experience anxiety and depression often involve a combination of behavioral interventions and medication. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be effective in treating anxiety and depression in individuals with autism, as it helps individuals learn coping skills and strategies to manage their emotions and behavior. Medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may also be prescribed to manage symptoms.

It is important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to treating anxiety and depression in individuals with autism. Treatment plans should be individualized and tailored to the needs and preferences of the individual.

Societal Intervention: Those Who Are Not Neurodiverse Need to Reframe Their Way of Thinking

Stigma associated with autism can be a significant barrier to diagnosis, treatment, and inclusion in society. Negative stereotypes and misconceptions about autism can lead to discrimination, bullying, and social isolation for individuals with autism and their families. To combat stigma, it is important to educate the public about autism and promote acceptance and inclusion of individuals with autism in all aspects of society. This includes advocating for policies and programs that support the needs of individuals with autism and their families, as well as creating more opportunities for individuals with autism to participate in education, employment, and community activities.

The world should also adapt to those with autism by creating more accessible and accommodating environments. This can include providing sensory-friendly spaces and activities, promoting inclusive hiring practices, and training educators, psychiatrists, nurses, psychologists, and other service providers to better understand and support the needs of individuals with autism. By working together to reduce stigma and create more inclusive and supportive environments, we can help individuals with autism reach their full potential and lead fulfilling lives.

Greg Roussett NP is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. As a psychiatry provider, he offers treatment for ADHD, panic disorder, depression, other mood disorders, and insomnia and sees and celebrates clients who are neurodiverse and meet criteria for Autism Spectrum. By training, he is also a cognitive behavioral therapist, psychopharmacologist (prescribing practices similar to a psychiatrist ), and offers a combination of psychotherapy and medication management to individuals experiencing depression. His office is located in Rockridge in Oakland, CA and provides services across the bay area to those residing in cities inclusive of Piedmont, Lafayette, Walnut Creek, Berkeley, and San Francisco. Book a complimentary consultation today here.