Let's Talk About Autism

Autism care varies widely across the world, and the differences come down to how countries structure healthcare, education, social services, and public awareness. The global picture shows meaningful progress in some regions and significant gaps in others. Across countries, several themes consistently shape the experience of autistic people and their families:

Early diagnosis and intervention - High‑income countries tend to have earlier and more reliable diagnostic pathways, while low‑income regions often face long delays or no access at all. In the United States, for example, early intervention is supported by federal programs such as IDEA, which funds services like speech and occupational therapy from birth to age three .

Insurance and financial support - Some countries mandate insurance coverage for therapies such as ABA, making treatment more accessible. Many U.S. states require insurers to cover autism therapies, reducing financial barriers for families .

Variation in prevalence reporting - Diagnostic rates differ dramatically, partly due to awareness and screening capacity. For example, autism rates per 100,000 people range from over 1,600 in Brunei to under 900 in many African countries, reflecting differences in detection rather than true prevalence .

Research and data gaps - In regions like Africa, research is limited and often unrepresentative, making it difficult to estimate prevalence or plan services. Reported cases tend to be the most severe because milder cases go undiagnosed We’re building something together with the people who understand autism best - those living it every day. If you’re a parent, an autistic person, a caregiver, a teacher, a therapist, or part of an organisation supporting neurodivergent individuals, we would love to hear your story. What challenges do you face? What support do you wish existed? Where could an app make your life easier, calmer, or more connected?

Your experience can directly shape what we build next. Write to us anytime at hello@thesamsararetreats.com, and let’s create something truly helpful, together.