A “Distracted Campaign” for Autism Awareness!

Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental difference that is present from birth and typically recognized within the first three years of life. Globally, the prevalence of autism is estimated at 1 in every 59 children. When this ratio is projected onto the population in Türkiye, it is estimated that there are approximately 1,387,580 individuals with autism, and 5,550,320 family members affected by the condition.

To raise broader awareness about autism and its symptoms—which are so widespread—Tohum Autism Foundation, in collaboration with 4129Grey, launched the “Unfocused Campaign”.

The campaign focuses on core challenges observed in children with autism, such as attention deficit, difficulty sustaining focus, inability to maintain conversation, repetitive and out-of-context speech, and a tendency to ignore topics being discussed in favor of personal interests.

As part of the campaign, autism awareness was raised through content that deliberately lost focus—such as a column by Ali Eyüboğlu in Milliyet Newspaper, segments on Dream Türk TV’s “Rengarenk with Hilal Özgani”, and Radio D’s “Akşam Akşam with Polat Labar”—mirroring the attention difficulties faced by autistic individuals.

With Early Diagnosis and Education, a Child with Autism Can Be Reborn!
Autism symptoms can be detected as early as the sixth month of life. Key indicators include:

• Avoidance of eye contact
• Fixating on one spot
• Not responding when their name is called
• Repeating words or phrases (echolalia)
• Inability to point at objects they want
• Lack of interest in peer play
• Rocking, flapping, walking on tiptoes
• Obsessive behaviors and intense fascination with spinning objects

If parents observe behaviors in their child that are different from peers of the same age, they should immediately consult a psychiatrist who specializes in autism.

Scientific studies show that with early diagnosis and the right educational approach, intensive education can lead to significant progress. In about 50% of cases, the symptoms of autism can be brought under control. Some children even develop to the point where, by adolescence, they are indistinguishable from their peers.