Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Apr 3: Doctors on Friday said that there is urgent need to deepen understanding, promote early diagnosis, and strengthen support systems for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in Kashmir.
Renowned psychiatrist Dr Abrar Guroo said, “It’s important to approach autism with empathy and sensitivity rather than limiting it to a clinical diagnosis.”
As a psychiatrist, one thing I have learnt from children with autism is that they experience the world differently, not less deeply. Our job is not to change who they are, but to understand them better,” he said.
Dr. Guroo elaborated that autism is far more than a label in medical records; it represents a spectrum of unique developmental patterns that vary from child to child.
“Autism is not simply a diagnosis in a file. It is a child who may struggle to speak, to connect, or to be understood—but with early support and patience, their potential can surprise us all,” he added.
Another leading psychiatrist, Dr. Aijaz Abdullah, highlighted the transformative impact of early recognition and professional support. “Early signs of autism—such as delayed speech, minimal eye contact, repetitive behaviours, and challenges in social interaction—are frequently overlooked in many Kashmiri households. These signs are often dismissed as temporary delays, leading to missed opportunities for early intervention,” said Dr Abdullah, adding, “Many parents come to us worried about delayed speech or poor eye contact. Recognising these signs early and seeking help can make a huge difference in the child’s development.”
“We should remember that awareness is only the first step. What families really need is acceptance, support, and early intervention,” he added.
Both experts emphasized that autism should not be viewed as a limitation but as a different way of perceiving and interacting with the world.
“Autism is not a lack of ability; it is a different way of experiencing and communicating with the world,” Dr. Abdullah said.
Dr Guroo added that Autism also challenges societal norms and perceptions, urging communities to adopt a more inclusive outlook. “One thing autism teaches us is humility—every mind works differently, and sometimes the child is not the one who needs to change; the world around them does,” he said.
“Despite increasing awareness, access to specialized therapies—including speech therapy, occupational therapy, and behavioural interventions—remains limited in Kashmir, particularly in rural and remote areas. Many families are forced to travel long distances or depend on expensive private services, placing both financial and emotional strain on caregivers,” said another doctor.
He said, “Parents of children with autism often grapple with social stigma and a lack of understanding within their communities, further compounding their challenges.”
