By: Mya Thompson

While we’re familiar with the saying ‘April showers bring May flowers,’ April also allows us to embrace the opportunity to celebrate something equally as exciting: autism acceptance. Autism Acceptance Month represents a shift from mere awareness to genuine acceptance and celebration of individuals with autism. In April, let’s focus on fostering a culture of acceptance and understanding for individuals on the spectrum and their families.  It is a time to challenge stereotypes and promote understanding.

I vividly remember the joy and challenges of growing up alongside my cousin, who is on the autism spectrum. From his unique perspective on the world to the genuine kindness he showed towards others, he taught me invaluable lessons about empathy, patience, and acceptance.

Growing up, I couldn’t fully grasp the idea of why my cousin was unable to communicate, or why he experienced delayed learning skills. However, as I grew older, I began to understand that people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain. Some people with ASD might have a noticeable genetic condition and others may behave or communicate in ways that most people do not.

Did you know that ASD affects ? I bet you also didn’t know that over 5.4 million adults in the United States are diagnosed with ASD, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC.) These statistics underscore the importance of raising awareness and promoting acceptance for individuals with autism.

Working for AFSPA fills me with pride. As an organization, we provide insurance benefits and support programs that enable our members to find the best possible care for their loved ones, including those with ASD.

In alignment with Autism Acceptance Month, AFPSA is joining the conversation with the CDC to “Celebrate Differences,” by utilizing our platform to amplify the message of awareness, inclusion, and connecting people to support services. Check below for ways AFSPA Can Help:

• The Foreign Service Benefit Plan (FSBP) covers Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) assessment and treatment at 90% of the Plan allowance for in-network providers and providers outside the 50 U.S., and 70% of the Plan allowance for out-of-network when provided by behavioral health providers. Assessment or treatment with ABA requires prior approval.
• In addition, FSBP covers outpatient physical, occupational, and speech therapy visits for the diagnoses of autism and developmental delays at 90% of the Plan allowance for in-network providers and providers outside the 50 U.S., and 70% of the Plan allowance for out-of-network providers.
• Brightline is a behavioral health benefit for members living in the U.S. enrolled in the FSBP. Brightline offers dedicated one-on-one coaching for pressures such as stress, anxious thoughts, navigating friendships, social media or cyberbullying, self-esteem issues, sleep problems, and more. FSBP stateside members can enroll at hellobrightline.com/FSBP or call the Brightline team at 888-224-7332 for any questions.
• To learn about other programs to help with mental wellness, click here.

How Can You Help?

We want to hear from you! What does autism acceptance mean to you and your family? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments of our recent post about autism on Instagram or Facebook.

Also, we encourage you to participate in local events, advocate for policy change, or spread awareness by joining the conversation with us on Instagram and Facebook. Use your social media to share your stories about autism acceptance and tag us with the hashtag #AFSPACares.

Together, let’s celebrate the unique talents and perspectives of individuals with autism, and work towards a more inclusive and accepting world!