As defined by the Centers for Disease Control, Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) is a developmental disability that can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges. People with ASD may communicate, interact, behave and learn in ways that are different from most other people.

Autism was not always discussed as it is today, and to incoming homeschooled freshman Kylee Beckett, who was diagnosed with Asperger’s at the beginning of this school year, there is still progress to be made.

“I have kind of learned how to cope with it, but when I mention it to someone they’ll kind of go back from me,” Beckett said. “[People] get scared when you bring up the word ‘autism.’’’

Autism is not something to be afraid of, but instead to educate oneself on and continue to educate others, by getting involved in organizations and participating in events during National Autism Awareness Month. Paul Isaac, a well known speaker for autism awarenes and advocacy, believes that autism is not something to fear.

“Do not fear people with autism, embrace them,” Isaac said. “Do not spite people with autism. unite them. Do not deny people with autism, accept them for their abilities will shine.”

As history has shown, autism has been viewed in a negative light before. According to Project Autism, in 1911 psychiatrist Eugen Bleuler had originally described autism as a sign of schizophrenia, and it was believed to be a fact until the 40’s. It was not until 1991 that the government determined that autism should be deemed a special education classifications and thus educational systems started looking for and accurately assisting children with autism. As of 2013, autism was put in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, or the DSM, as Autism Spectrum Disorder. This makes it easier for children to be diagnosed.

Despite this, there are still some stereotypes and stigmatisms around autism. It is not uncommon for people to still be unaware of what autism consists of and how it affects those with the disorder. According to the Autism Science Foundation, people with autism might show behaviors not typical in others: repetitive motor behaviors, such as hand flapping, and body rocking, insistence on sameness, resistance to change and, in some cases, aggression or self injury.” Temple Grandin, an American professor and autism advocate, speaks on the effects of these behaviors.

“When I did stims such as dribbling sand through my fingers, it calmed me down,” Grandin said.

Today there are many groups and organizations who dedicate their work in order to raise awareness and funding for autism research. Alongside them, there is also a national month, April, specifically for autism awareness. According to the Autism Society of America, this national month is celebrated through presidential/congressional declarations and online events and activities in order to bring attention to their cause and raise awareness. If one would like to help from home, donating to the Autism Society greatly helps to improve their services and further research for autism.

“It’s becoming more well known,” Beckett said. “People are becoming more [accepting] of it.”