𝐁𝐡𝐮𝐭𝐚𝐧 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐬 𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐧 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐬𝐦

…𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒍𝒚 𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒗𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒄𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝑩𝒉𝒖𝒕𝒂𝒏’𝒔 𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒊𝒔𝒎 𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒑𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒆

By Yeshi Dolma

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a global condition affecting millions of children and adults, and Bhutan is no exception. With the World Health Organization (WHO) estimating that about one in 100 children are diagnosed with autism worldwide, Bhutan has made significant strides in raising awareness, providing timely support, and improving outcomes for individuals on the spectrum.

The Kingdom’s commitment is evident in its healthcare initiatives, educational efforts, and community involvement, shaping a more inclusive future for children with autism.

Organizations like the Ability Bhutan Society (ABS) are at the forefront. According to the 2021 Global Burden of Disease study, there are an estimated 61.8 million people living with autism worldwide, approximately one in every 127 individuals. In Bhutan, ABS provides critical services, advocacy, and awareness programs, working to bridge gaps in autism care, diagnosis, and early intervention.

To mark World Autism Awareness Day on April 2, 2025, Bhutan embraced the global theme, “Love, Hope, Accept,” with events across the country. The day offered families, healthcare workers, educators, and social workers a platform to emphasize inclusion and understanding.

Building on this momentum, ABS held a Medical and Dental Camp in partnership with DANTAK on April 22, 2025. The camp provided free medical consultations, dental checkups, and treatments tailored to the specific needs of children with disabilities, including those with autism. Educational sessions for parents and caregivers addressed the importance of maintaining general and oral health, reinforcing Bhutan’s commitment to both awareness and tangible support.

A critical element of autism care is early diagnosis and intervention. ABS’s annual camps, held once or twice a year, now focus specifically on providing children with disabilities, especially those with autism, access to specialized services and educational programs. Early intervention plays a pivotal role in shaping a child’s developmental trajectory.

ABS has observed a steady rise in autism diagnoses over the years. More than 60 children have historically been registered annually, with around 55 receiving services. This year, 39 children enrolled, a slight decline attributed to ongoing screening processes. Nevertheless, over half of those enrolled were diagnosed with ASD, with about 20 children identified during this year’s camp.

“Early diagnosis of autism, ideally by age two or three, is critical for effective intervention,” said Kuenzang N. Tshering, Executive Director of ABS. He emphasized that early childhood intervention, particularly for children showing mild symptoms, offers the greatest potential for improving outcomes. ABS strives to ensure that children receive timely support, whether through integration into regular schools or training in vocational skills for those unable to attend mainstream education.

Parental involvement is central to ABS’s approach. “Unlike traditional schools where children are dropped off, we involve parents in daily activities and train them to support their children effectively,” Tshering said. Parents, as primary caregivers, play a vital role in reinforcing the skills and strategies taught at the camp, ensuring continuity of progress at home.

Over the past 13 years, ABS has supported nearly 500 children, successfully integrating about 350 into mainstream schools by the age of five or six. For those unable to transition into regular schools, vocational training programs help children develop skills for independent living. ABS also offers home-based services for families who cannot attend the camp, ensuring that support reaches even the most remote communities.

However, challenges persist. Sumitra Dare, a social worker at ABS, stressed the importance of consistency in therapy. “We can make significant improvements, but consistency is key,” Dare said. Inconsistent attendance by some families often hinders children’s progress.

“Even small improvements, which we consider great achievements, may not seem like much to parents,” she said. “But when children miss sessions for weeks or months, it disrupts the progress we’ve made.”

Children often regress after prolonged absences, forcing therapists to start over. “Without regular support and parental involvement, it’s challenging for children to maintain the gains they achieve,” Dare added.

First-hand accounts highlight the difference consistent support can make. Yeshi Tshering, a grandparent of a child with autism, shared his experience. “In our village, we had limited treatment options and little understanding of autism,” he said. After relocating to the city, the family received crucial support from local hospitals and ABS.

“The doctors and staff at ABS were very understanding and took the time to explain everything clearly,” Yeshi said. “They provided not just medical assistance but also emotional support, guiding us through the challenges.”

He expressed deep gratitude for the personalized care his grandchild received, noting that the experience taught him the importance of seeking help and recognizing that support is available even in the most difficult situations.

Despite the hurdles, there are inspiring examples of individuals on the autism spectrum achieving remarkable success. Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has openly discussed his diagnosis of Asperger’s Syndrome, a form of autism. His achievements have challenged stereotypes, demonstrating that individuals with autism can excel when given the right opportunities.

Musk’s story serves as a reminder that autism is often a different way of thinking rather than a limitation. For many families in Bhutan, it offers hope that, with the right interventions and support, children with autism can fulfill their potential and lead successful lives.

As His Majesty The King of Bhutan has said, “A nation’s progress can only be measured by the wellbeing of its weakest members.” Bhutan’s efforts to support children with autism through early diagnosis, intervention, and continued care reflect this vision.

With growing awareness, the dedication of organizations like ABS, and support from both the government and the community, Bhutan is building a society where children with autism are given every opportunity to thrive. The journey is far from over, but the country’s commitment to inclusion offers hope to countless children and their families navigating the challenges of autism.

As Bhutan moves forward, its focus on early intervention, education, and sustained support will play a critical role in ensuring that no child is left behind.