NY Times Makes Living With Autism and Asperger’s Syndrome Front Page News – Bravo!

On the front page of Monday’s NY Times, Amy Harmon introduces Jack Robison and Kirsten Lindsmith, two young adults diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome, a brain and behavior disorder ‘on the spectrum’ of Autism Spectrum Disorders, who forge a relationship based on their common understanding and mutual idiosyncrasies.

In telling the story of these two young adults who have struggled most of their lives to fit in, socialize and form lasting bonds of affection, the NY Times compassionately spotlights the attention and further understanding needed to enable those living with this illness to live full, satisfying lives.

The Brain & Behavior Research Foundation has funded this specific area of research with $7 million in NARSAD Grants since 1987. This is in addition to the $270 million invested broadly across brain and behavior research is leading toward greater understanding of the functioning of the brain and how to treat and possibly prevent its dysfunction. Mental illness is an area that remains stigmatized and desperately needs this kind of media attention and research investment. Countless millions suffer the consequences of inadequate understanding, diagnosis and treatments. We congratulate the NY Times for recognizing its front page importance.

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