Autism In Children: Stigma And Costly Therapies Take A Toll On Parents

The inaugural Autism Awareness Campaign, organized by the Farida Seth and Stefan (FSS) Foundation, focused on the urgent need for greater societal acceptance, emotional support, vocational opportunities, and targeted care for children living with autism. Autistic children, often described as being "on the spectrum," may exhibit a range of conditions including pervasive developmental disorder (PDD), PDD-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS), Asperger’s syndrome, and high-functioning autism. These children often display varied behavioral traits, with classic autism being the most severe form among the spectrum disorders.

For parents raising children with autism, the journey is filled with emotional, social, and financial challenges. Identifying autism or related developmental conditions typically involves evaluating the child’s social behavior, communication skills, and overall interaction patterns. Since there’s no single diagnostic test, multiple evaluations by a team of professionals—including psychologists, neurologists, pediatricians, and therapists—are required.

Mrs. Opeyemi Ebagua, a former banker and mother to 17-year-old Justin who has autism, shared her emotional and financial struggles with Vanguard. She described the journey as uniquely difficult, involving tantrums, meltdowns, speech delays, and strict dietary needs.

The Financial Burden of Therapy

“Therapies are outrageously expensive,” Ebagua explained. “Some parents pay as much as ₦200,000 monthly just for speech therapy—excluding costs for occupational or behavioral therapies.”

Calling on the government for intervention, she emphasized the role of parents as the first therapists. She recalled how her son was often rejected by schools due to behavioral issues like biting and meltdowns, further highlighting the lack of awareness and inclusion.

Promoting Vocational Training

Ebagua advocates for vocational training centers tailored for children with autism. “Not every child needs to become a doctor or lawyer,” she said. “We need to equip them with skills like baking, painting, carpentry, and farming so they can become independent.” She stressed that parents won’t always be around, making it critical for autistic individuals to learn how to care for themselves and build fulfilling lives, including starting families of their own.

Acceptance Starts at Home

Mr. Adedapo Kukoyi, father of a 7-year-old autistic child, urged parents to start educating family members and close circles about autism. “These children are special—not strange,” he said. “Once love and understanding begin at home, it can ripple out into schools, society, and even the healthcare system.”

He believes autistic children should not be isolated from society. “My son deserves love and social interaction just like any other child. He’s not to be treated differently just because he’s unique.”

Low Societal Acceptance Still a Challenge

Brook Eduok, founder of the FSS Foundation, pointed out the ongoing societal rejection of autistic children—even by their own parents. “Many still view these kids as a curse,” she said. “Early intervention is key, and denial only makes things worse.”

The FSS Foundation was created to fill the awareness gap about special needs and disabilities, particularly autism. Eduok decried the persistent myths and stigmatization that further alienate affected families.

“Autism is a lifelong condition, not a phase,” she said. “These children need proper care, therapy, and structure to help them thrive and become self-reliant.”

A Call for Government Support

Eduok called on the government and other stakeholders to provide financial support and infrastructure. “Parents are overwhelmed. This is a full-time responsibility, and many simply can’t afford therapy or specialized tools.”

She stressed the need for inclusive policies, employment opportunities for individuals with autism, and schools with trained, compassionate staff who understand the needs of special children.

“As an organization, we remain committed to raising awareness and advocating for a better future for children on the spectrum,” Eduok concluded.