The war in Ukraine presented numerous problems to society, and one of the least discussed is the difficulties faced by people with autism. “Rain people” are those who hear the world differently, who feel its every movement through the prism of special sensitivity. In times of peace, their world is often full of challenges that remain invisible to others. But when in the background of daily difficulties air alarm sirens sound, when the house is cold and familiar places turn into ruins, the life of autistic people becomes a test on the edge of survival.
Rain people in the modern vortex
All the things that have now become common for every Ukrainian, for an autistic person, are not just inconveniences, but real traps. After all, for such people, predictability, silence and stability are simply vital. Their problems are often overlooked. And no wonder, because in a society focused on survival, it’s hard to find time to understand why someone can’t stand noise, touch or chaos. In the conditions of the armed conflict, attention to these persons practically disappeared, which only worsened their already vulnerable situation. People with autism, as well as their families, found themselves in a complete vacuum of support – both in Ukraine itself and outside of it.
Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a condition associated with impaired brain development. It manifests as a congenital and pervasive deficit in the ability to socialize and communicate. It is impossible to completely cure autism, but with the help of correction and specialized support, it is possible to help a person adapt to social life and significantly improve its quality.
People around often confuse autism with manifestations of bad mood, stress or depression. This creates additional difficulties because such people do not receive the necessary support. In addition, each person’s autism manifests itself in its own unique way. These behavioral features are important to notice and must be taken into account when communicating with a person with autism. Specialists distinguish several forms of autism:
- Asperger’s autism is a mild form. Autists with such a diagnosis are antisocial and limited in communication, somewhat withdrawn, but able to coexist independently in society.
- Kanner’s autism is a severe form of the disease. Patients in this category are completely antisocial, with incoherent speech and low cognitive abilities. Such patients require constant supervision, and sometimes even hospitalization.
- Rett syndrome spreads only among women. It is characterized by rapid regressive processes in the body (life expectancy of women with this syndrome does not exceed 30 years – ed.).
- Atypical autism is a disease state characterized by complex symptoms, and therefore it is difficult to assign it to one of the above groups.
According to the World Health Organization, as of 2014, there was one child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) for every 160 children in the world. But, as noted by WHO specialists, this figure is an average indicator. Studies indicate a significantly higher prevalence of disorders. According to experts of the American association “Autism Speaks”, there is 1 case of autism for every 88 children. The total number of people with this diagnosis in the world is about 2.4 million.
In Ukraine, according to the Ministry of Health, from 2008 to 2013, the incidence rate of ASD among children increased 3.8 times: from 2.4 to 9.1 per 100,000 children. At the same time, there are still no accurate statistics on the prevalence of autism, especially among adults, in our country, which makes it much more difficult to estimate the real number of people with this condition. It is only known that every year the number of children diagnosed with autism increases by approximately 30%. In addition, the general data on the prevalence of ASD in the world cannot be completely accurate either. This is explained, in particular, by the lack of statistics from low- and middle-income countries, where such studies are practically not conducted.
Despite this, there is a steady increase in the number of people with autism spectrum disorders worldwide. These dynamics point to the need to proactively implement support systems for individuals with autism and their families, as well as the importance of accurate data collection for effective resource planning.
A study published in The Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry draws attention to a new dynamic in the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Between 1998 and 2018, there was a substantial increase in diagnoses, with the largest increase seen among women and adults. The results of the study disproved the stereotype that autism is much more common in men and is usually diagnosed in childhood. Today, such a diagnosis is more and more common among women, and the number of cases in which autism is detected in adulthood is also increasing. This trend may be the result of improved diagnostic methods and increased awareness among both the population and medical professionals.
Thus, over the past decade, the diagnosis of “autism” has gained much more attention, and the number of cases of its establishment has increased by 175%. This is most noticeable in young women, in particular in the age group from 24 to 36 years, among whom there is a significant jump in diagnosis. This is evidenced by research data, published in October 2024, as cited by National Geographic. Experts explain this growth with several key factors. First, there has been an increase in general awareness of autism and better awareness among both the public and health professionals. Second, modern clinical methods allow more accurate identification of autism spectrum disorders, especially among groups that were previously overlooked. Third, there has been an increased understanding that autism can manifest itself in a very different way than previously thought, especially in women.
Traditionally, the ratio of autism cases between boys and girls was believed to be 4:1 in favor of boys. However, a number of modern studies question this indicator. Scientists suggest that autism may be much more common among women and girls, but due to differences in manifestations and insufficient attention to these features, it was often not diagnosed earlier.
A modern approach to the study of autism allows us to better understand the specific manifestations of this condition in women, which can be significantly different from men. For example, women with autism may mask their difficulties in social interaction more effectively or display them in less obvious ways. This, in turn, accounts for the later age of diagnosis, but also highlights the importance of new approaches to identifying and supporting people with autism spectrum disorders.
Adults with ASD have certain difficulties that significantly affect their daily life. They usually face problems in social communication and interaction. This can be manifested in the inability to make new acquaintances or build relationships, avoidance of verbal communication, difficulties in self-expression both verbally and non-verbally. People with ASD often avoid close people, lose interest in former hobbies and significantly narrow their interests. In addition, they may have difficulty understanding other people’s emotions, which is sometimes perceived by others as a lack of empathy. Failure to respond to emotions or social cues often leads to misunderstandings and social isolation. It should be noted separately that chronic fatigue is a constant companion of such people, which makes their life even more difficult.
These features present significant challenges for adults with ASD, especially if the diagnosis is not made until adulthood. In such cases, they may feel even more alienated due to the lack of understanding from society. The increase in the number of diagnosed cases among women and adults emphasizes the importance of developing gender- and age-sensitivity in diagnostic approaches, as well as the need to create support programs that will help them better adapt to social life. These new data force us to rethink established stereotypes about autism and call for a more inclusive approach in the formation of social support.
Challenges of war for autistic people
In Ukraine, the war destroyed much of the infrastructure, including specialized centers and programs for children and adults with autism. Many families were forced to leave their homes, and at the same time lost access to necessary services and support. People with autism remain invisible to humanitarian organizations, which mostly focus on providing basic assistance such as food and shelter.
A separate problem arises for refugees with autistic children who have been forced to leave the country. Refugee support centers abroad usually do not provide specialized services for such children. Schools and educational institutions do not have specialists who speak Ukrainian or have experience working with autism. In the rare cases where services are provided, they are often limited and do not meet real needs.
The issue of language is particularly acute. In Poland, where thousands of Ukrainian refugees have moved, psychologists often use the Russian language in their work with victims. For Ukrainian families traumatized by the war, this can be an additional source of pain rather than support. This reality further deepens the trauma, creating feelings of helplessness and alienation.
The situation with autism in Ukraine became a peculiar reflection of the general crisis in the system of support for persons with disabilities during the war. If we consider that the prevalence of autism is approximately 1% of the population, this means that about 80,000 people with this diagnosis need help among refugees alone. However, for now, these numbers remain just statistics that do not translate into actual support programs.
Without proper attention to this problem, children with autism and their caregivers face further complications. Families not only lose support, but also have to adapt to new conditions without adequate knowledge and resources. In many cases, this leads to caregivers feeling left to fend for themselves.
Khrystyna Dolynyuk, Associate Professor of the Department of Psychology at the private Rider University in New Jersey (USA), expressed concerns about the situation in which displaced Ukrainians with autism found themselves. Using global autism prevalence statistics (1 in 100), she estimated that among Ukrainians who were forced to leave the country because of the war, about 80,000 people need individual services and specialized support.
According to Dolyniuk, during her stay in Poland, she saw for herself that refugee support centers in most cases do not offer any information or help related to autism. A similar situation is observed in schools in other countries: even in those that provide basic support in the Ukrainian language, there are no autism specialists or specially trained traumatologists. This creates additional difficulties for families who are already in difficult circumstances.
These circumstances are in stark contrast to the recommendations of Autism Europe, expressed as far back as 2022, which emphasized the need to provide adequate support for people with autism, especially in crisis situations. Unfortunately, reality shows a significant gap between the recommendations of international organizations and how they are implemented in practice.
Genius autists
People with autism often have unique abilities that can be combined with difficulties in learning simple skills. They are capable of achieving outstanding results in certain areas if they find their passion and receive the necessary support. History knows many examples of famous personalities who probably lived with autism, but were able to leave a mark in history.
Albert Einstein, one of the greatest scientists, had difficulty communicating with people, did poorly in school, and had difficulty expressing his thoughts. He had a hard time finding work because he disliked social contact and avoided physical contact. However, his genius made it possible to change science forever.
Composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart also showed signs of autism. His musical talent was exceptional, but he suffered from hypersensitivity to sounds, lack of facial expressions and repetitive movements. His music, despite all the difficulties, became immortal.
Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the United States, could not tolerate loud noises, did not speak well in front of an audience, and had difficulties in social contacts. However, this did not prevent him from becoming one of the founders of American democracy.
Anthony Hopkins, a prominent British actor who has Asperger’s syndrome, himself admits that this condition helps him in his work. Thanks to his perfect memory, he easily remembers pages of scripts and is passionate about his roles.
Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, also has Asperger’s syndrome. He spoke openly about it for the first time during the broadcast of a popular program, noting that it does not prevent him from implementing ambitious ideas.
The causes of autism are still a topic of research. It is believed that ASD can occur due to a combination of genetic factors and environmental influences. But as real examples show, despite all the challenges, people with autism can and do achieve significant success if their talents are supported and appreciated.
Mysterious disease
Autism research is a mosaic that humanity has been putting together for decades, sometimes with mistakes, sometimes with insights, but always with the desire to understand the phenomenon of rain people. This journey began in the darkness, where autism was considered either a psychiatric disorder or just strange behavior, and led us to the realization that autism is a unique way of perceiving the world.
In 1943, child psychiatrist Leo Kanner first described autism as a distinct condition, observing children with withdrawal, communication difficulties, and a strong desire for permanence. Almost simultaneously in Austria, Hans Asperger drew attention to children with similar characteristics, but with exceptional abilities in certain areas. These two laid the groundwork for understanding autism, but their work has long remained in the shadows.
In the 1960s and 70s, the prevailing idea was that autism is caused by so-called “cold mothers.” Such a callous statement only deepened the stigma. Later, researchers proved that autism has a neurobiological nature.
The 1980s were a real breakthrough in the study of the disease. Autism officially entered the medical classifications, which gave impetus to new research. Scientists began to study genetics, discovering that the condition is hereditary. The concept of “autism spectrum” appeared, which made it possible to understand that people with autism can be extremely different.
One of the most famous researchers of autism is the American psychologist and psychiatrist Bruno Bettelheim. His research interests included not only autism, but also the behavior of people in extreme conditions such as concentration camps. He created a number of theories that help to understand how people adapt to such emergencies. In addition, Bettelheim explored the characteristics of male maturation and the rituals that accompany this process. He attached great importance to the psychological impact of reading, especially the role of fairy tales, in raising children. His works opened new horizons in the study of children’s psyche and the relationship between literature and personality development.
In the 21st century, the focus of research shifted to the quality of life of autistic people. Now they are not seen as a “problem”, but as bearers of a unique way of thinking. Thanks to modern technologies, from MRIs to artificial intelligence, scientists are studying how the brains of people with autism work and how to create a world where they feel comfortable. But for the modern world, it is worth doing everything possible so that not only science notices autistic people, but also society learns to perceive this phenomenon not as a disease, but as part of the diversity of human nature.
How people with a diagnosis of autism are perceived abroad
Abroad, the attitude towards autistic people often depends on the culture, the level of public awareness and the development of inclusive programs. In countries with advanced social policies, such as Sweden, Canada or the Netherlands, autism is accepted as part of human diversity. Here, children with autism attend regular schools, where special conditions are created, and adults are helped to realize themselves in work and society.
For example, Sweden has a whole support system for families with autistic children. They can get financial help, specialist services and even a personal assistant to help them with their daily lives. In Canada, autistic people are actively being integrated into the workforce because their unique abilities, such as attention to detail or analytical thinking, are seen as a resource, not a problem.
In Japan, the attitude towards autistic people has its nuances. On the one hand, the country creates opportunities for special training and employment. On the other hand, Japanese society is quite closed, so autistic people often face social isolation. However, the situation there is changing, and large corporations are increasingly opening programs for employees with neurological differences.
In America, the movement for the rights of autistic people is actively developing. The term “neurodiversity” is common there, which emphasizes that autism is not a disease that needs to be treated, but one of the forms of human uniqueness. People with autism are increasingly becoming public figures, such as writer Temple Grandin and actor Anthony Hopkins, who speak openly about their condition.
However, even in the most developed countries, not everything is perfect. Barriers remain: from a lack of resources in small communities to stigma in certain social strata. But in general, the trend is clear: the world is moving towards hearing and accepting everyone, regardless of their neurotype. Therefore, Ukraine, as a country on its way to European integration, should take into account the example of its foreign colleagues.
War exposes the weakest parts of society, and the problems of autism in Ukraine have become one of those wounds that remain in the shadows. When sirens fill the silence and the evacuation bus becomes an ordeal instead of a rescue, the needs of people with autism are doubly neglected. In the chaos of war, their cry for help is silent, almost inaudible to a system busy fighting for survival. This is not just a gap in social policy, but a reflection of how much our society is ready to accept everyone, regardless of their characteristics.
Today we fight not only for territories, but also for the right of every person to live in a world where his needs are important. And if we learn to see and support people with autism even in the most difficult times, it will be the best proof that we are moving towards a real victory.
