Jalandhar-based college raises awareness on autism with an insightful workshop

The Department of Psychology at Apeejay College of Fine Arts (ACFA) in Jalandhar commemorated Autism Awareness Month with a one-day workshop titled “Moving from Surviving to Thriving.” The workshop aimed to shed light on autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and explore strategies for supporting individuals with autism in leading fulfilling lives.

Mr. Atul Madan, a licensed clinical psychologist and Managing Director of Care for Autism in Ludhiana, served as the keynote speaker. He emphasised the prevalence of autism, highlighting that one in 36 children is affected. Madan underscored the importance of early detection and intervention, stating that timely therapy can enable individuals with autism to live regular lives. He stressed the significance of empathy and patience in dealing with individuals on the autism spectrum and provided insights into effective parenting approaches for children with autism.

Ms. Sheenu Kochhar, an alumna of the college and Head of the Center for Autism in Ludhiana, also addressed the workshop participants. As a psychologist and expressive art therapist, Kochhar shared her perspectives on the role of therapy in ASD. She further highlighted the transformative impact of early therapy interventions, noting that timely treatment can significantly enhance individuals’ ability to perform daily tasks independently. Kochhar echoed Madan’s emphasis on the importance of speech therapy, occupational therapy, and specialised education in supporting individuals with autism.

Dr. Neerja Dhingra, Principal of ACFA, underscored the importance of raising awareness about autism and fostering an inclusive environment for individuals with ASD. She emphasised the need for students to develop empathy and understanding towards individuals with autism, stressing on the importance of respecting their choices and comfort zones.

Dr. Dhingra commended the efforts of Ms. Niharika and Ms. Harpreet Kaur from the Department of Psychology for organising the workshop and guiding students on this critical topic. The workshop provided valuable insights into the challenges faced by individuals with autism and underscored the significance of early intervention and therapy in enhancing their quality of life.

Overall, the workshop served as a platform for students to gain a deeper understanding of autism and explore strategies for supporting individuals with ASD, contributing to creating a more inclusive and empathetic society.