CMHA Algoma joins individuals and organizations across the country to recognize and support
National Autism Awareness Month this April.
Autism, or autism spectrum disorder, refers to a wide range of conditions related to brain
development. According to the World Health Organization, autism affects about one in 100
children. Characteristics of autism may be detected in early childhood, but an official diagnosis
may not come until later in life.
While autism is a neurodevelopmental difference and/or disability, a high proportion of
individuals who live with autism spectrum disorder face mental health issues. These can be
caused by experiences of bullying, communication differences and social isolation. Individuals
with autism also often lack of appropriate resources and supports and experience lower rates of
employment, in part because of discrimination and difficulties in neurotypical environments that
create barriers for full inclusion and participation.
CMHA Algoma offers the Central Access and Information service, where you can speak with an Access Worker who will be able to provide you with information and referrals to the mental health and addictions services that are available in the Algoma District.
According to the University of British Columbia, nearly 78 per cent of children with autism have
at least one mental health condition, and nearly half have two or more mental health conditions.
This is in stark contrast to the just over 14 per cent of youth without autism that have a mental
health condition.
As for adults, it’s estimated that seven in 10 people with autism have a mental health condition.
People with autism are also at a higher risk substance misuse and suicide.
Provincially, CMHAs works with partners including Autism Ontario to deliver a mental health
program tailored to support those on the autism spectrum and their caregivers. Learn more
here.
Help us create awareness about autism and mental health on social media this month by using
the hashtag #AutismAwarenessMonth.