Autism – or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech, and nonverbal communication.
The month of April is known worldwide for spreading awareness of ASD; specifically, April 2nd of each year. We know that autism is not a single entity, but a disorder with many subtypes, most affected by a mix of genetic and environmental factors. Because autism is a spectrum disorder, everybody with autism contains a distinct set of strengths and challenges. The techniques in which people with autism learn to think and problem-solve can range from highly skilled to severely challenged. Some people with ASD may require significant support in their daily lives, while others may need less support and, in some cases, they live entirely independently.
To educate and inform the public, and for the first time ever in the history of hospitals & care centers in Saudi Arabia, Abeer Group arranged for an educative sit-down; where over 50 people attended. The attendees were prioritized to be parents of Autistic children, or children medically diagnosed with ASD. The adult attendees were seated in a seminar room for the educational program and the children were escorted to a specially designed playroom with many activities to indulge in while their parents were attentively participating in the educational program.
Abeer Group in collaboration with Ms. Leena Abul Hasan Khan– Health Activist, and Mr. Ahmed Siddiqui – MSc Educational Neuroscience, joined hands to create a fully drawn-out program that initially educated the attendees then allowed for a Q&A session. Mr. Ahmed first began by explaining ASD to the attendees, defining the term thoroughly. He then, proceeded with the red flags to look for in children that may be a symptom of ASD. Mr. Ahmed then spoke about what parents or guardians should do when they notice such symptoms or behavioral signs and who to consult on the matter. Therapeutical techniques were also discussed, and he stressed educating the parents on which technique to follow or work with to address a certain subtype of ASD. The speaker ended by highlighting the importance of including the parent/guardian of an ASD child in therapeutic sessions, through techniques and care methods that should be applied and followed at care centers, schools, and even at homes.
Abeer Medical Group offered all the attendees a special medical package and a no-wait policy implemented across all its branches across the kingdom. The medical package includes; an ENT package for 150 SAR, a Dental package for 180 SAR, and a Free Dermatology check-up. Abeer Group announced that the medical package is available for all ASD care seekers at all its branches across the kingdom.
Abeer believes that impaired communication and social interaction are two aspects that can be mended and improved with the right educational techniques and in the right place prepared for it.
Constantly driven by its mission to refine and redefine healthcare standards through consistent quality enhancement and spreading awareness of healthy lifestyles, Abeer Group believes that ASD-diagnosed children with the right care and tools set out for them can be future change-makers in society.
