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PsySSA Commemorates World Down Syndrome Day – 21 March 2026

PsySSA Commemorates World Down Syndrome Day – 21 March 2026

by | Mar 21, 2026 | Division of Neuropsychology and Forensic Psychology (DNFP), Mental Health Advocacy, Mental Health Calendar, Society for Educational Psychology of South Africa (SEPSA), The South African Association for Counselling Psychology (SAACP)

TOGETHER AGAINST LONELINESS

What Educational Psychologists Must Do Differently

BY DR PAKEEZAH RAJAB, ON BEHALF OF THE SOCIETY FOR EDUCATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY OF SOUTH AFRICA

 

Placing a child with Down syndrome in a mainstream classroom does not guarantee inclusion. True inclusion means belonging, feeling known, valued, and genuinely connected to peers. This World Down Syndrome Day, we ask: are our schools producing presence, or producing belonging?

World Down Syndrome Day is observed on 21 March each year. This date is deliberately chosen to represent the triplication (trisomy) of chromosome 21, the genetic hallmark of Down syndrome. The 2026 theme, “Together Against Loneliness,” is not merely a compassionate slogan. It is a research-backed call to action.
Studies consistently show that children and young people with Down syndrome are at heightened risk of social isolation and loneliness, not because of their chromosomes, but because of how our environments, schools, and social systems are designed. As educational psychologists, school psychologists, and educators, we have both the tools and the obligation to change this.

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World Down Syndrome Day

Rekha Kangokar Rama Rao

World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD), observed annually on 21 March, is a global awareness day dedicated to promoting the rights, inclusion, and well-being of people with Down syndrome. The date (21/3) represents the triplication of chromosome 21, the genetic condition responsible for Down syndrome. In South Africa, this day provides an important opportunity to highlight the experiences of individuals with Down syndrome, raise awareness about their health and developmental needs, and promote inclusive policies that support their full participation in society.

Down syndrome is a chromosomal condition caused by the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21, known as trisomy 21. This additional genetic material influences physical growth, cognitive development, and certain health outcomes (Antonarakis et al., 2020). Internationally, Down syndrome occurs in approximately 1 in every 700 live births (Bull, 2020). In South Africa, estimates suggest a similar prevalence; however, the data is outdated, as most studies were conducted during the 2000s (McGlinchey et al., 2025). This could be due to underreporting and inconsistent surveillance systems. Despite these limitations, research indicates that Down syndrome remains one of the most common chromosomal conditions affecting children in the country.
Children and adults with Down syndrome often experience a range of developmental and health challenges. These may include intellectual disability, characteristic physical features, and increased susceptibility to certain medical conditions such as congenital heart defects, hearing impairments, thyroid disorders, and vision problems (Bull, 2020). Studies conducted in South Africa have also identified congenital heart disease as one of the most common medical complications among children with Down syndrome, emphasising the need for early screening and specialised healthcare services (McGlinchey et al., 2025). Early intervention programs, including physiotherapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy, can significantly improve developmental outcomes and independence.

However, the challenges faced by individuals with Down syndrome in South Africa extend beyond healthcare. Social stigma limited public awareness, and barriers within the education system often restrict opportunities for children with intellectual challenges. According to Statistics South Africa (2024), in the report generated in 2022, persons with disabilities are significantly less likely to complete schooling or access employment opportunities compared to the general population. This disparity highlights the importance of inclusive education policies and social support system that enable children with Down syndrome to reach their full potential.
South Africa has made important policy commitments to protect the rights of persons with disabilities. The White Paper on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities emphasises equality, dignity, and access to services for individuals with disabilities (Department of Social Development, 2016). The inclusive education initiative, guided by the Education White Paper 6 on Special Needs Education, aims to create a more inclusive schooling system that accommodates learners with diverse developmental needs. When implemented effectively, inclusive education can improve academic achievement, social integration, and long-term independence for learners with Down syndrome.

World Down Syndrome Day also highlights the importance of self-advocacy. Increasingly, individuals with Down syndrome in South Africa are speaking out about their rights, participating in community activities, and advocating for greater inclusion in education and employment (Down Syndrome South Africa, 2023). Their voices are essential in shaping policies and services that affect their lives, aligning with the global disability rights principle of “Nothing about us without us” (Koontz et al., 2022).
In conclusion, World Down Syndrome Day provides an opportunity for South Africans to reflect on progress made and the work that still lies ahead. While healthcare improvements and supportive services have enhanced the quality of life for many individuals with Down syndrome, barriers to education, employment, and social inclusion remain significant. Strengthening inclusive education, improving access to healthcare, and increasing public awareness are critical steps towards building a society where individuals with Down syndrome are respected, valued, and empowered to participate fully in their communities.

References
Antonarakis, S. E., Skotko, B. G., Rafii, M. S., Strydome, A., Pape, S. E., Bianchi, D. W., Sherman, S. L., & Reeves, R. H. (2020). Down syndrome. Nature Reviews Disease Primers, 6(1), 9. https://doi.org/10/1038/s41572-019-0143-7
Bull, M. J. (2020). Down syndrome. The New England Journal of Medicine, 382(24), 2344-2351. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMra1706537

Department of Social Development. (2016). White Paper on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Government of South Africa. https://www.gov.za/sites/default/files/gcis_document/201603/39792gon230.pdf
Down Syndrome South Africa. (2023). About Down syndrome. https://www.downsyndrome.org.za

Koontz, A., Duvall, J., Johnson, R., Reissamn, T., & Smith, E. (2022). “Nothing about us without us:” engaging at users in at research. Assistive Technology, 34(5), 499-500. https://doi.org/10.1080/10400435.2022.2117524
McGlinchey, E., Fortea, J., Vava, B., Andrews, Y., Ranchod, K., & Kleinhans, A. (2025). Raising awareness and addressing inequities for people with Down syndrome in South Africa. International Journal for Equity in Health, 24(10, 7. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12939-024-02349-3

Statistics South Africa. (2024). Prevalence of disability on the decline in SA. Pretoria: Statistics South Africa. https://www.statssa.gov.za/?p=17391

 

Down’s Syndrome and Issues Relevant to Neuropsychological Practice

 

Down syndrome (DS) is a chromosomal abnormality associated with intellectual disability. Biologically, DS is a genetic condition caused by the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21, resulting in 47 chromosomes rather than the typical 46. For this reason, it is also referred to as trisomy 21. There is no compelling evidence indicating that factors such as nationality, ethnicity, diet, medication use, illness history, or upbringing influence the risk of this genetic disorder. Similarly, maternal behaviour during pregnancy has not been conclusively linked to the course of the disorder. However, advanced maternal age has been identified as a risk factor.

In addition to distinctive physical characteristics, individuals with Down Syndrome may experience social, emotional and psychological challenges which impact their educability, independent living (in adults) and employability. For example, symptoms of depression may increase with age as individuals integrate socially within adolescent and adult peer environments. More often than not, neurological conditions such as epilepsy may also occur as comorbid medical concerns requiring cognizance and understanding of how seizure disorders impact overall emotional, cognitive and social functioning. It is important to note that individuals with DS exhibit varying levels of intellectual impairment, which may create substantial barriers to independent participation in mainstream education, training and employment. Furthermore, with advancing age, some individuals with Down Syndrome may develop dementia thus requiring ongoing cognitive and behavioural monitoring.

During early childhood development, significant delays in speech and language development are often observed, and cognitive impairments may also become more apparent over time. Despite these challenges, children with Down Syndrome often display distinct cognitive profiles characterized by both strengths and weaknesses which should be carefully documented in neuropsychological assessments. These patterns of functional capacity are best identified through multidisciplinary assessments that include neuropsychologists and other healthcare professionals such as occupational therapists. In addition to reviewing the literature on DS, clinical exposure, supervision, and specialized training in Down’s Syndromes patient populations are essential for professionals seeking to develop a deeper and when work in these settings.

Against this background, several issues relevant to neuropsychological and forensic practice become apparent.

1. Competency
Individuals with Down Syndrome frequently demonstrate limitations in communicating effectively with their legal representatives, in understanding legal proceedings, and making informed decisions. These difficulties arise from characteristic intellectual and adaptive impairments that may reduce their ability to participate meaningfully in court processes or fully comprehend the consequences of legal actions. As a result, neuropsychological evaluations play an important role in determining competency to stand trial and participate in legal proceedings. Individuals with Down Syndrome may experience cognitive difficulties specific to memory encoding, retrieval, and narrative organization, often undertaken by neuropsychologists skilled in applying appropriate assessment instruments to these populations. Impairments in recalling specific details, sequencing events accurately, or differentiating between real experiences and suggestions provided during questioning may become apparent. As a result, forensic neuropsychologists must carefully evaluate memory functioning and the conditions under which testimony particularly in criminal situations was obtained to determine its reliability.

2. Suggestibility and Vulnerability
Studies suggest that individuals with Down Syndrome may exhibit increased suggestibility and compliance, particularly in stressful situations or when interacting with authority figures. This heightened suggestibility can increase the risk of unreliable testimony, false confessions, or manipulation during police interrogation in criminal matters. Difficulties in social cognition, combined with a strong desire to please others, may further increase vulnerability to coercion, exploitation, or abuse. Standard police interviewing techniques often places individuals with intellectual disabilities such as Down Syndrome at a disadvantage due to complex language used in rapid questioning, and the intimidating nature of questioning. Modified interview approaches, including simplified language, slower pacing of interview questions and the presence of trained support persons or intermediaries is often recommended.

3. Criminal Responsibility
The intellectual disability associated with Down Syndrome can affect an individual’s ability to form criminal intent (mens rea) or understand the wrongfulness of their actions. Forensic neuropsychological assessments must therefore consider developmental level, comprehension of legal concepts, and contextual influences and their interactive influences with functional brain status. In many cases, individuals with significant intellectual impairment may not meet the legal standards required for criminal responsibility. Careful forensic neuropsychological evaluations with documented strengths and deficits are therefore essential in determining the degree of responsibility and appropriate legal outcomes (Baird & McGillivray, 2022; Schalock et al., 2021).

4. Capacity
Individuals with Down Syndrome may experience limitations in decision-making capacity related to informed consent, financial management, and independent living. Assessments should evaluate the individual’s ability to understand relevant information, appreciate risks and benefits, and apply reasoning to real-life situations. Beyond cognitive testing, forensic neuropsychological evaluations assesses adaptive functioning, focussing on the skills required for practical, social, and conceptual capacities required for everyday life. Individuals with Down Syndrome typically show varying levels of independence in areas such as financial management, personal care, and social decision-making. Documenting adaptive functioning in objective and narrative formats is critical to assisting courts considering life-altering decisions such as criminal responsibility, guardianship, and capacity for independent living. Furthermore, neuropsychological assessments form a critical part of the broad determination about the need for guardianship, and other daily needs such as the capacity to consent to medical treatment, and identifying vulnerability to financial exploitation.

5. Risk of Victimization
Due to cognitive, adaptive, and social vulnerabilities, individuals with Down Syndrome are at an increased risk of victimization, including abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Forensic and clinical neuropsychological evaluations should therefore consider protective factors and identify potential risks within the individual’s social environment. Some individuals with Down’s Syndrome may experience difficulties with impulse control, emotional regulation, and social judgment. These challenges can occasionally contribute to problematic behaviours or misunderstandings in social situations that potentially lead to legal involvement. Forensic neuropsychologists are often required to conduct structured risk assessments to evaluate behavioural regulation in various scenarios and environmental influences, prognosticating on the likelihood of future behavioural incidents. Such assessments guide courts in determining appropriate supervision or support services.

Professionals from multidisciplinary settings must ensure that appropriate safeguards and support systems are in place to protect individuals with DS from harm (Baird & McGillivray, 2022; Gudjonsson et al., 2017).

Members: Prof Theophilus Lazarus (Chairperson); Dr Ann Watts (deputy Chairperson; Barry Viljoen
(General Secretary and Treasurer); Dr Louise Olivier; Dr Lindiwe Mabena; Dr Karl Swain; and Hendrina Mosima

References
Baird, J., & McGillivray, J. (2022). Intellectual disability and the law: Forensic issues. Current Opinion in Psychiatry, 35(2), 98–105.

Gudjonsson, G. H., Sigurdsson, J. F., & Sigurdardottir, S. (2017). Suggestibility and compliance in individuals with intellectual disabilities. Journal of Forensic Psychiatry & Psychology, 28(6), 807–820.

Roizen, N. J., & Patterson, D. (2023). Down syndrome. The Lancet, 401(10377), 1136–1150.

Schalock, R. L., Luckasson, R., & Shogren, K. A. (2021). The definition and classification of intellectual disability: An update. Journal of Intellectual Disability Research, 65(5), 429–441.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Members: Prof Theophilus Lazarus (Chairperson); Dr Ann Watts (deputy Chairperson; Barry Viljoen
(General Secretary and Treasurer); Dr Louise Olivier; Dr Lindiwe Mabena; Dr Karl Swain; and Hendrina Mosima

 

PsySSA Commemorates World Head Injury Awareness Day

PsySSA Commemorates World Head Injury Awareness Day

by | Mar 20, 2026 | Division of Neuropsychology and Forensic Psychology (DNFP), Mental Health Advocacy, Mental Health Calendar

PsySSA Commemorates World Head Injury Awareness Day

By PsySSA Division of Neuro and Forensic Psychology

This article is aimed at alerting healthcare professionals, and psychologists in particular, on the prevalence of head or brain injuries (these terms are often used interchangeably) in society.

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PsySSA Commemorates Neurodiversity Celebration Week – 16-22 March 2026

PsySSA Commemorates Neurodiversity Celebration Week – 16-22 March 2026

by | Mar 16, 2026 | Division for Research and Methodology (DRM), Division of Neuropsychology and Forensic Psychology (DNFP), Mental Health Advocacy, Mental Health Calendar

Neurodiversity Celebration Week 

This week, PsySSA joins the global community in recognising Neurodiversity Celebration Week – a time to affirm the value, strengths, and diverse experiences of neurodivergent people.

Neurodiversity reminds us that differences in how people think, learn, and experience the world are natural variations of the human mind. Promoting understanding, inclusion, and dignity is essential to creating environments where everyone can thrive.

Throughout the week, we will be sharing insights and reflections from PsySSA’s AI, RCP, and DNFP divisions. These contributions will highlight research, professional perspectives, and lived experiences that deepen our collective understanding of neurodiversity.

Join us as we celebrate diverse minds, challenge stigma, and continue working toward a more inclusive and supportive society.

 

Click Here To Read South African Neurodiversity Guide

Neurodiversity Celebration Week

 

Neurodiversity Theme: Inclusion, Ethics, and Psychological Practice in South Africa

Neurodiversity Week 2026 (16–22 March) offers South African psychologists an opportunity not only to raise awareness, but to deepen our ethical commitment to inclusion, dignity, culturally-sensitive, and scientifically grounded practice. As professionals registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA), our celebration of neurodiversity must extend beyond recognition—it must shape how we assess, diagnose, formulate, and advocate.

Neurodiversity reminds us that differences in attention, communication, learning, sensory processing, executive functioning, and motor coordination reflect natural variation in human brain development. At the same time, diagnostic frameworks such as the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR), published by the American Psychiatric
Association (2022), and the World Health Organization International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) (2019) continue to identify neurodevelopmental conditions that may involve significant functional impairment requiring support. Holding both realities, difference and disability is the ethical task before us.

Neurodiversity: Different Wiring, Equal Worth

The concept of neurodiversity, introduced by Judy Singer (1999) and further articulated by Nick Walker (2021), reframes neurological differences as part of natural expected human diversity. Within this paradigm, individuals with autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, specific learning disorders (including dyslexia and dyscalculia), intellectual disability, developmental coordination disorder, tic disorders, and communication disorders are understood as having brain structural and organizational patterns that are “wired differently.”

There is emerging evidence suggesting that even within diagnostic categories, there is significant variation, for example autism is not a single condition with one root cause, but is an umbrella term for a cluster of conditions with similar, although not identical, features. There is likely to be further subgroups identified in future research, leading to more targeted interventions. There are also suggestions that there is a relative under-diagnosis of neurodivergent patterns in communities that lack financial resources, typically those from Black communities.

However, different neurological wiring must not be grounds for exclusion.

  • Exclusion arises not from neurological difference itself, but from social environments that are structured around narrow cognitive norms. When schools demand uniform learning styles, when workplaces privilege rigid executive functioning patterns, or when therapeutic spaces assume neurotypical communication styles, systemic barriers emerge.
  • As psychologists, our responsibility is to identify not only different patterns of neurological processing and impairment, but also environmental mismatch.

HPCSA Ethics and Inclusion

The HPCSA’s General Ethical Guidelines for the Health Care Professions and Scope of Practice for Psychologists provide a clear framework for Neurodiversity Week reflection. Core principles include:

  • Respect for persons and human dignity
  • Non-discrimination
  • Beneficence and non-maleficence
  • Professional competence

These are not abstract ideals. They are practical and professional obligations.

When we use stigmatizing language, overpathologising difference, conflate socioeconomic and language disadvantage with cognitive impairment, or recommend unnecessarily restrictive placements, we risk contravening these principles as set by HPCSA.

Conversely, when we provide balanced diagnostic feedback, advocate for reasonable accommodation in a workplace, and contextualize functional challenges, we actively uphold ethical practice. Celebrating Neurodiversity Week therefore means aligning our Clinical work with our ethical commitments.

Neuropsychologists: Balanced Interpretation Matters

Neuropsychological assessment carries significant consequences for educational access, occupational opportunity, and self-concept.
Contemporary research indicates that conditions such as ADHD and autism involve differences in neural connectivity and developmental timing rather than simple deficits. Reports that emphasize only weaknesses risk reinforcing low expectations. Reports that ignore impairment may limit access to support.

During Neurodiversity Week, Neuropsychologists are reminded that balanced profiling should document strengths alongside challenges, supporting inclusion while maintaining diagnostic rigor.

Workable Sound Commitments for Neurodiversity Week 2026

As we mark 16–22 March 2026, it is essential for psychologists to continuously reflect on the following commitments:

  • Update assessment practices to ensure cultural and linguistic appropriateness.
  • Review report language for unintended deficit framing.
  • Strengthen CPD in neurodevelopmental science.
  • Engage in conversations about inclusive policy within schools and organizations.
  • Validate neurodivergent identity while addressing functional challenges.

Small shifts in language formulation, recognize differences and practice inclusiveness could have a profound impacts on dignity and belonging.

Beyond Awareness: A Professional Responsibility

Neurodiversity Week is not simply a celebration of difference; it is a reminder of responsibility towards society. Diagnostic clarity remains essential. Functional impairments are real and require structured support. Yet neurological difference does not diminish worth, capacity, or the right to participation in all aspects of broader society

For all psychologists registered with HPCSA; inclusion is embedded within ethical practice. Our role is not to eliminate difference, nor to idealize it, but to ensure that difference does not lead to exclusion but to understanding and inclusion. As we celebrate Neurodiversity Week 2026, may we reaffirm that different brain wiring is part of human diversity and that ethical psychological practice demands understanding, accommodation, and inclusion in society.

The Role of Psychologists during Neurodiversity Week

During Neurodiversity Week and beyond; each category of psychologist registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) could play a meaningful role in promoting awareness, inclusion and support.

The brief reflections below highlight possible intersections between neurodiversity awareness and the various categories of psychological practice. These links are offered in a spirit of professional reflection and do not constitute determinations of scope or regulatory guidance, which remain the responsibility of the HPCSA:

  • Neuropsychologist: Neuropsychologists Specialized category focusing on neuropsychological assessment, diagnosis and rehabilitation related to brain-functioning disorders. Relevant to neurodiversity where neurological functioning impacts cognition and behavior.
    Link: https://www.hpcsa.co.za/board/psychology/regulations.
  • Clinical Psychologist: HPCSA Psychology Scope Regulations – Clinical Psychologists Section. Registered to assess, diagnose and treat psychological distress and psychopathology using evidence-based psychological interventions.
    https://www.gov.za/sites/default/files/gcis_document/201409/34581rg9582gon704.pdf
  • Counselling Psychologist: Link: HPCSA Psychology Scope Regulations of Counselling Psychologists Section. Relevant to neurodiversity when addressing adjustment, identity and related psychosocial issues.
    https://www.gov.za/sites/default/files/gcis_document/201409/34581rg9582gon704.pdf
  • Educational Psychologist: Assesses and intervenes to optimize learning, development and barriers to learning across the lifespan; includes profiles that relate to neurodiverse conditions. https://www.gov.za/sites/default/files/gcis_document/201409/34581rg9582gon704.pdf
  • Research Psychologist: Conducts psychological research often contributing to knowledge on neurodiversity, Link: HPCSA Psychology Scope Regulations Research Psychologists Section
    https://www.gov.za/sites/default/files/gcis_document/201409/34581rg9582gon704.pdf
  • Industrial Psychologist: less directly neurodiversity-focused, but may assess and advise on workplace adjustment and functioning HPCSA Psychology Scope Regulations – Industrial Psychologists Section
    https://www.gov.za/sites/default/files/gcis_document/201409/34581rg9582gon704.pdf
  • Registered Counsellor (Psychological), identify needs requiring advanced assessment (e.g., neurodevelopmental concerns), and refer appropriately. Link: HPCSA Psychology Scope Regulations – Registered Counsellors Section
    https://www.gov.za/sites/default/files/gcis_document/201409/34581rg9582gon704.pdf
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AI as a prostethic or cage - AI and Neurodiversity podcast

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1deGrYRLMjD970Fqt5VXgJV015Y9kMWtL/view

World Autism Awareness Day – 2 April 2025

World Autism Awareness Day – 2 April 2025

by | Apr 2, 2025 | Division for Research and Methodology (DRM), Division of Neuropsychology and Forensic Psychology (DNFP), Mental Health Calendar

PsySSA Commemorates World Autism Awareness Day

2 April 2025

Beyond awareness: Fostering true acceptance of autistic individuals

By: PsySSA’s Division for Research and Methodology

On 2 April, World Autism Awareness Day serves as a global reminder to foster a deeper understanding of autism (World Autism Awareness Day | Autism Speaks, n.d.). However, awareness alone is not enough. Autistic individuals continue to face systemic barriers in education, employment, and healthcare – barriers that persist because society has been slow to move from awareness to genuine acceptance and meaningful inclusion.

The weight of masking and fitting in

For many autistic people, navigating daily life requires masking: they suppress or alter their natural ways of being to conform to neurotypical or non-autistic expectations (Pearson & Rose, 2021). Seers and Hogg (2023) discussed how masking is used as a strategy for social survival rather than mere conformity. One participant in the Seers and Hogg (2023) study describes the relentless strain of masking as follows:

When I think about the mask, I don’t know which bit is the mask, which bit is myself, and which parts of the mask have fused to myself and become indistinguishable from it. It is only in the privacy of my own mind that I allow myself to express what might be the real me. (p. 31)

This highlights the emotional toll of constantly performing neurotypical behaviours simply to be accepted. People with autism often describe masking as physically and emotionally exhausting, leading to burnout, anxiety, and depression (Beck et al., 2024; Lupindo et al., 2023; Seers & Hogg, 2023).

Challenges in healthcare settings

While autistic people experience difficulties navigating educational (Goodall, 2018; Karrit & Coetzee, 2025) and work (Lupindo et al., 2023) spaces, healthcare settings present another significant challenge. Beck et al. (2024) and Øverland et al. (2024) found that participants with autism frequently report feeling misunderstood or dismissed in healthcare settings. Participants in their research articulated a deep need for health care services that validate their experiences rather than pathologise them (Beck et al., 2024).

Moving forward: A call for meaningful change

True acceptance requires more than symbolic gestures: it demands systemic change. Inclusion should not be framed as a favour or accommodation but as a fundamental right that ensures autistic individuals can participate in society without compromising their authenticity (Beck et al., 2024). As expressed by a research participant in Beck et al. (2024), “You’re hurt and people don’t try to understand things from your perspective. It’s like you’re expected to understand things from their perspective, but there’s no effort on the other person’s part.” This lack of reciprocal understanding underscores the urgent need for spaces where autistic individuals are not only heard but actively supported.

Imagine feeling completely alone in a room full of people, constantly suppressing who you are to avoid rejection. For many autistic individuals, this is not an occasional experience but a daily reality. By fostering empathy, embracing neurodiversity, and creating inclusive spaces, we can ensure that autistic people are not just acknowledged but truly accepted and valued.

This World Autism Awareness Day, let’s commit to understanding. Let’s move beyond awareness to create a society where autistic individuals can thrive – not by changing who they are, but by changing how the world sees them.

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World Autism Awareness Day

By: PsySSA’s Division of Neuro and Forensic Psychology

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is defined by the DSM 5-TR as a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction across multiple contexts, alongside restricted, repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests, or activities. While these symptoms are present from early childhood, diagnosis can occur depending on knowledge and access to care at various points in life. These symptoms cause significant impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.

Considering the diagnosis occurs along a spectrum, no two individuals are alike. The severity of the disorder is determined based on the level of support needed, ranging from requiring minimal support to substantial support. The presentation of ASD can vary greatly between individuals, some may have challenges with communication, social interaction, or sensory processing, while others may have remarkable talents and abilities in areas such as art, music, technology, and more. Some may have intellectual disabilities or language delays, while others may have average or above-average intelligence and advanced language skills.

It is through understanding and acceptance that we can truly appreciate these differences and create inclusive environments where all individuals have the opportunity to reach their full potential. On World Autism Day, we come together to honour and celebrate the unique perspectives, abilities, and strengths of individuals on the autism spectrum. This day serves as an important reminder that autism is not a barrier, but rather a different way of experiencing and interacting with the world. It is an opportunity to recognise the richness of diversity in human experiences, and to break down the stereotypes and misconceptions that often surround autism.

South African organisations like Autism South Africa and Autism Western Cape, along with others work tirelessly to support those with the diagnosis as well as their families, while educating society and breaking down stigma. The Autism Parenting Magazine is also a fantastic resource for parents unsure of where to go next or how to overcome challenges which they are grappling with. Worth noted as well were the professional group discussion videos made by the SASCP division.

As we reflect on this day, let us commit to fostering compassion, respect, and inclusion for all individuals on the autism spectrum. Let us build a world where neurodiversity is celebrated, where people are empowered to be their authentic selves, and where communities come together to support each individual’s journey. By creating spaces of belonging, we enable individuals with autism to thrive, contribute, and lead fulfilling lives.

Together, we can make a world that recognises and values the talents, perspectives, and humanity of every person, regardless of their neurological makeup.

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Mental Health Awareness Month: A Neuropsychological Perspective

Mental Health Awareness Month: A Neuropsychological Perspective

by | Oct 28, 2024 | Community and Engagement, Division of Neuropsychology and Forensic Psychology (DNFP), Mental Health Advocacy, Mental Health Calendar

Mental Health Awareness Month; October 2024

by Prof T Lazarus on behalf of the PsySSA Division of Neuropsychology and Forensic Psychology.

Mental health is affected by multiple factors, both biological and socio-economic in nature. Communities from disparate social and economic backgrounds are not immune to mental health challenges, and this may occur across the lifespan. With respect to brain changes resulting from disease or trauma, the ensuing mental health changes encompass multiple domains of functioning, including cognitive, emotional, behavioural and social. Far-reaching consequences that extend beyond the patient, impacting personal, interpersonal, family and work activities are often evident. In the case of brain trauma, it is now recognized the injury to brain, even minor in nature, may impact education and work activities, and personal relationships.

The sequelae may be managed with various forms of interventions such as cognitive rehabilitation but persisting difficulties are found years beyond the post-acute recovery period. Apart from trauma, the impact of brain diseases such as stroke leaves residual problems not only in the physical domain (such as weakness of a limb or loss of speech), but in thinking and emotional functioning. More recently, research has suggested that the COVID virus does enter the brain, impacting various domains of functional capacity, leaving patients who had this infection with persisting problems of thinking (commonly referred to as ‘brain fog’) and emotional difficulties (more often depression and anxiety). Neuropsychologists are called upon to determine to what extent functional capacity is affected in long-term COVID conditions. Thus, long-term care is now commonplace for victims of brain injury and disease, with patients experiencing difficulty returning to employment and resuming relationships.

In addition to the clinical implications of brain disease, the potential impact of brain related disorders is becoming more evident in legal matters. Acting impulsively and displaying aggressive or violent behaviours, showing poor judgment in managing self-behaviours in public and private contexts, and the inability to manage one’s personal affairs is common in brain injury and/or disease. In these instances, neuropsychologists possess the training and skills to formally assess patients with brain disease or injury, providing recommendations in regard to individuals’ functional capacity to return to work, ability to manage their personal affairs such as financial matters, as well as investigating whether a brain injury impacted judgment in cases of violent behaviour or instances suggesting poor judgment or insight into their behaviour. With the increasing burden of disease and injury impacting the brain structurally and its functioning, neuropsychologists are well-placed to offer the South African community expertise in identifying brain dysfunction, make diagnoses and management, and offer pertinent opinion on the impact of brain injury and/or disease on behaviour in medicolegal and forensic settings.

WORLD HEAD INJURY AWARENESS DAY 2022

WORLD HEAD INJURY AWARENESS DAY 2022

by | Mar 19, 2022 | Community and Engagement, Division of Neuropsychology and Forensic Psychology (DNFP), Divisions, Mental Health Advocacy

More Than My Brain Injury

Division of Neuropsychology and Forensic Psychology

Psychological Society of South Africa

World Head Injury Awareness Day is observed annually on the 20th of March. The core purpose of this day is to provide awareness and to educate the public about traumatic head injuries[1]. Another focus is enhancing awareness and knowledge on how to reduce accidents and brain injuries. The day therefore also advocates for the correct usage of various safety equipment (e.g. helmets, seat-belts, etc.) which can prevent or lessen insult to the brain when involved in accidents[2].

Traumatic brain (head) injuries (TBI) are a leading cause of disability and mortality worldwide and a few years ago, the World Health Organization indicated that TBI would surpass many diseases as the major cause of death and disability by the year 2020. Global estimates are that in excess of 10 million people are affected annually by TBI, making this a serious public health concern[3]. In South Africa it is one of the leading causes of disability and most commonly occurs as a result of motor vehicle, bicycle or pedestrian accidents, falls and violence[4]. Notable in terms of the latter are the country’s high levels of gender-based violence which frequently results in TBIs. Sports-related head injuries are also recognised as a risk for TBIs and their associated cognitive and behavioural problems, and the need for post-concussion monitoring is now emphasise. Importantly, about 22% of all injuries sustained in soccer have been identified as TBIs/concussions[5].

The theme for World Head Injury Awareness Day for the 2021 to 2023 campaign is “More Than My Brain Injury”. Survivors of brain injury are often challenged with physical, cognitive, emotional, behavioural and social limitations, severely impacting on life with significant economic consequences[6].

For more information click here

[1] https://www.cdc.gov/traumaticbraininjury/get_the_facts.html

[2] http://www.optimabloem.co.za/head-injury-awareness-day-more-than-my-brain-injury/

[3] Hyder AA, Wunderlich CA, Puvanachandra P, Gururaj G, Kobusingye OC. The impact of traumatic brain injuries: a global perspective. NeuroRehabilitation. 2007;22(5):341-53. PMID: 18162698.

[4] https://www.gov.za/GBV

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