Autism Cure: The Search Continues

Autism is a neurological disorder that affects development and is generally diagnosed prior to three years of age.  Not much is known about the disorder, though many theories exist as to what causes autism.  What is known is that a person with autism reacts differently to the outside world because the disorder affects the way a person stores, processes and interprets information.  While many people live with autism, currently there is no autism cure.

Some Don't Want a Cure

Many people who are diagnosed with the disorder don't want an autism cure, believe it or not.  For many individuals with autism, they consider the disorder a part of who they are.  They've lived as an autistic person for so long that they consider it a blessing, not a disorder as it is categorized.  Autism afflicts people in different ways.  No two people are the same, thus no two cases of autism are the same.  Many people, with intense therapy, practice and support, are able to lead normal, productive lives even with the disorder.

Those that want an autism cure find living with the disorder difficult.  They aren't able to form normal relationships like other people.  They are often withdrawn and favor routine.  They shun affectionate behavior and react badly to certain stimuli, throwing tantrums such as crying or screaming fits when their routine is interrupted.  They dislike loud noises or bad smells.  The fact is, their brain just reacts differently to certain stimuli.  That's why it's especially important that people diagnosed with autism participate in programs and activities that encourage social interaction so that they can one day hope to live normally or, at least, in a self-sufficient manner.

Education Is Key

There is no autism cure but research is being done to better understand the disorder and how to better treat those who have it.  By learning about and understanding autism, those who don't have the disorder will be able to help those that do.  It is sad to think that many autistics are perceived as weird or odd to others who don't have the disorder.  Education is key so that autistic individuals can hope to be accepted just like everyone else. Maybe one day there will be an autism cure.  Finding a cure, however, takes research.  To help the experts who are trying to find out how to rid people of the disorder, funding is needed.  If you want to help, donate what you can to your local autism society.