Between two wars: new challenges and their solutions in the lives of children with autism

Anna Bugaiova, head of the inclusive workshop "Everybody Matters", spoke about three new challenges, as well as possible solutions to overcome them.

The war created new challenges for parents of children with autism and actually put them between two wars: one common and the other personal, which will never end and is mostly invisible to fellow citizens. Parents of children with autism must be even stronger and more determined to find ways to support their family during this difficult time. And society should remember that autism is not a lack of education, but something that can happen in every family, says Bugayova.

Mode change and routine shift

Challenge: The changes caused by war can be difficult for children with autism. Because they especially need a stable and structured environment.

Solution: Parents should try to create a new routine and structure that accommodates the newly created limitations. It can be some minor everyday rituals related to specific dishes, movies, or games. For example, bake pizza every Tuesday, and play UNO every Wednesday. Such predictability will give a child with autism some confidence in the future and reduce anxiety levels. It is also good to use visual aids, even for those children who do not have communication problems. Visual rules, charts, and cards will help them to accept and understand changes faster.

General emotional stress and anxiety

Challenge: War creates dangerous situations that lead to increased cases of negative behavior in children with autism, disturbed sleep, aggression or self-aggression. Parents are used to experiencing all these challenges on their own, without seeking professional psychological support. But in times of war, it is very important to take care not only of children. Because without parents and their care – children with autism will not be able to live with dignity, even when they become adults. Ukraine has not yet developed a humane and effective system of support for adults with mental disabilities.

Solution: You should start looking for support groups or psychological counseling from public organizations that help people with autism. It can also be yoga or meditation. It is significant to find ways to relax and restore the emotional state that is right for you and allocate time for them. If a child has a disability, you can submit a request to the Department of Social Policy to organize a social service for temporary rest for parents. This service is provided by the order dated January 19, 2021, on the approval of the temporary rest service for parents or persons who replace them, who provide care for children with disabilities.

Limited access to medical services and classes with specialists

Challenge: Medical services and activities are becoming less and less due to destroyed infrastructure, evacuation of workers, and insufficient financial resources. This can create very significant problems for parents of children with autism whose children require ongoing medical support or therapy.

Solutions: Alternative sources of medical support should be sought, such as a remote consultation with a doctor, using online resources for sessions with a psychologist, or involving volunteers who can provide assistance. If necessary, apply to charitable foundations and public organizations.

Anna Bugayova became a participant of the Vidnova Fellowship Ukraine project, created to support active citizens who decided to return to the Motherland. Within its framework, he deals with the socialization of teenagers and adults with autism and other forms of mental disability.

It was important for me to resume my activities in Ukraine. So that people with mental disorders continue to live a life that is simple for all of us, and not be imprisoned within the four walls of their homes. To receive high-quality psychological support, so necessary during the war. With the help of Vidnova, I continue to work to bring society closer to the understanding that everyone can be different, but remain equal, - says Anna Bugayova.