April is Autism Awareness Month

April is designated as National Autism Awareness Month to increase understanding and create awareness of autism. In recognition of autism as a growing health priority internationally, April 2, 2017 is designated as World Autism Awareness Day with the “Light It Up Blue” campaign.

“Light It Up Blue” is an initiative that spreads awareness and an understanding of autism, celebrates the unique talents of people with autism and brings attention to their needs. During this campaign thousands of iconic landmarks, schools, businesses and homes shine bright blue lights, and people wear blue to honor the millions of individuals and their families who are affected by autism.

Autism and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are general terms for a group of complex disorders of brain development. Some common characteristics at different levels may include difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication, and repetitive behaviors.

In May 2013, all autism disorders were merged into one diagnosis of ASD after having been previously classified as distinct subtypes. Autism is usually diagnosed at a young age by an autism-specific behavioral analysis. Parents are encouraged to get their child screened if he or she displays social challenges, communication difficulties, repetitive behaviors, or has an associated medical condition.

To learn more about autism visit www.autismspeaks.org or connect with Autism Speaks’ on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and more.

About OCCMHA

Oakland County Community Mental Health Authority is the public mental health system responsible for identifying, influencing, and delivering services and supports to approximately 25,000 Oakland County residents, including individuals with intellectual/developmental

disabilities, adults with mental illness, children with serious emotional disturbance, and persons with substance use disorders. Most of these individuals have Medicaid.

OCCMHA’s current network of service providers include: Common Ground, Community Housing Network, Community Living Services, Community Network Services, Easterseals Michigan, Macomb-Oakland Regional Center, Oakland Family Services, Inc., and Training and Treatment Innovations. A complete list of substance use service providers is available on OCCMHA’s website. For more information about OCCMHA call (800) 341-2003 or visit www.occmha.org.