We hear a lot about autism, and the media—putting out movies like Rain Man and the more recent The Accountant—have helped give some attention to it for better or worse. The fact remains, many people simply don’t understand autism, despite the Center for Disease Control (CDC) reporting that approximately 1 in 59 children has an autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Autism is considered a developmental disorder with different levels of severity that is characterized by difficulty in social interaction and communication and by restricted or repetitive patterns of thought and behavior. The intense focus of some individuals can lead to difficulty dealing with extreme verbal or auditory stimulation, but may also lead to excellence in art, music, arithmetic, spatial skills, or other abilities.

While the study showed that boys are four times more likely to be diagnosed with autism than girls, the condition didn’t discriminate across ethnic or socioeconomic groups. What it did find, however, is that early intervention affords the best opportunity to support healthy development and deliver benefits throughout life.

To promote autism awareness, autism acceptance, and to draw attention to the tens of thousands facing an autism diagnosis each year, National Autism Awareness Month was created.

What is National Autism Awareness Month?

You may have heard about World Autism Day. It’s one of only seven official health-specific days recognized by the United Nations. Taking place on April 2, it brings together autism organizations around the globe to aid in research, diagnoses, treatment, and acceptance for those affected by the condition. Due to its prominence, the Autism Society launched a month-long nationwide effort to promote autism awareness, inclusion, and self-determination for all, and ensure that each person with ASD is provided the opportunity to achieve the highest possible quality of life.

Along with celebrating those with ASD that have achieved greatness (the list in the next section may surprise you), the Autism Society also promotes inclusion of autistic individuals within schools and communities, stating that they should be valued for their unique talents and gifts. April awareness events include:

• Presidential/Congressional declarations
• Online events and activities
• Local events and activities through Affiliates
• Partner opportunities

Famous People with Autism

Take a look and see if one of your favorite talents is among these 20 famous folks with autism. We mentioned it may surprise you!

1. Dan Aykroyd – Actor: The Blues Brothers, Trading Places, Ghostbusters

2. Hans Christian Andersen – Author: The Little Mermaid, Thumbelina, The Ugly Duckling

3. Susan Boyle – Vocalist: Britain’s Got Talent

4. Tim Burton – Director: Beetlejuice, Batman, Edward Scissorhands

5. Lewis Carroll – Author: Alice in Wonderland, Through the Looking Glass

6. Henry Cavendish – Scientist: Discovered hydrogen

7. Charles Darwin – Naturalist: Theorized evolution

8. Emily Dickinson – Poet: Because I Could Not Stop for Death

9. Albert Einstein – Physicist, Scientist, and Mathematician

10. Bobby Fischer – Chess Grandmaster: Portrayed in Searching for Bobby Fischer

11. Bill Gates – Co-founder of the Microsoft Corporation

12. Daryl Hannah – Actress: Splash, Wall Street, Kill Bill

13. Thomas Jefferson – The third President of the United States

14. Steve Jobs – Former CEO of Apple

15. Stanley Kubrick – Director: 2001, A Clockwork Orange, The Shining

16. Michelangelo – Sculptor, Painter, Architect, Poet

17. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart – Composer: Rondo a La Turka, Piano Sonata No. 15

18. Sir Isaac Newton – Mathematician, Astronomer, Physicist

19. Jerry Seinfeld – Comedian, Actor: Seinfeld

20. Andy Warhol – Artist: Campbell’s Soup Cans, Shot Marilyns

What to Get Involved?

The Autism Society recommends sign up for their e-newsletter to continue sharing ideas on how to make a better world for autistic people. They also encourage sharing experiences and stories and using #StandUpForAutism when appropriate to get the word out.

The Autism Awareness Puzzle Symbol is another piece of support. It’s the most recognized symbol for the condition, and you can show your support by wearing it as a brooch, a car magnet, a blog badge, or even your Facebook profile picture. To learn more about the Autism Awareness Ribbon, click here. To purchase the Autism Awareness Puzzle Ribbon for your shirt, car, locker, or refrigerator, click here.

Finally, be sure to follow Disability Experts of Florida for all your needs. If you or a loved one has autism and it’s affecting or limiting work opportunities, one of our disability advocates is always available to speak with you. Contact us today to learn more about filing for disability with autism.