WHAT MAKES PEOPLE WITH DOWN SYNDROME DIFFERENT?

Down syndrome is a genetic condition caused by the presence of one extra chromosome in the human DNA. With 47 chromosomes, people with down syndrome often experience learning difficulties, delayed development and have an increased risk of gastrointestinal, cardiological and respiratory conditions. 

Down syndrome is the most frequently occurring chromosomal disorder (affecting approximately 1 in 800 newborn babies), and occurs across all ethnicities and social backgrounds. Researchers believe that an increased maternal age may raise the likelihood of down syndrome children; this, however, is not always the case. There are over 13,000 Australians living with down syndrome, and is expected to rise due to an increased life expectancy and higher standard disability care facilities.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO HAVE DOWN SYNDROME?

With the opportunities in today's society, the majority of people with Down syndrome are active members of their community, who enjoy a relatively normal life. Despite being labelled an 'intellectual disability', down syndrome does not hinder a person's ability to live a good life, or fulfil their individual talents. Due to greater knowledge and support of this condition, the average life expectancy of citizens with down syndrome has risen approximately by 80% since the mid-1900's, and the quality of life has risen remarkably.

Associations such as 'Orana', create opportunities for people with disability to live and work within their local community, fulfil their dreams and become valued and productive community members. Currently supporting over 650 South Australians with Orana provides training + employment opportunities, skill development programs and even short-term accommodation and housing necessities.

Fortunately, in Australia, government provisions have significantly improved disability support and care, and the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) offers individual support for people with severe disabilities and provides assistance for their families and carers. Many adults with Down syndrome can live on their own, but most individuals with down syndrome thrive in a supported care facility, where they can live in a home with the assistance necessary for their individual needs.

Studies show that people with down syndrome have positive self-perceptions, and are often more cheerful than others. A 2011 research article concludes that:

"nearly 99% of people with Down syndrome indicated that they were happy with their lives; 97% liked who they are; and 96% liked how they look. Nearly 99% people with Down syndrome expressed love for their families, and 97% liked their brothers and sisters."

According to Sheva Girve, 'Having a child with Down syndrome will soften your heart', and expresses that she has become more accepting of others since having a down syndrome daughter. She wishes to spread the message that: 'raising a child with Down syndrome is wonderful and amazing because having children is wonderful and amazing. It makes you realize that a mother's love is not based on a child's ability, but on your own ability to accept and give. Having a child with disabilities can sometimes be hard, but sometimes it’s not. And after you realize this, then you realize this is true for all children.'

Similarly, a 2019 survey* highlights that over 95% of Australians agree that it is a blessing to know someone with down syndrome and believe they have introduced so much love and happiness into their world.

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HOW CAN I SUPPORT SOMEONE WITH DOWN SYNDROME?

• TREAT THEM NORMALLY! Anyone with an intellectual disability is likely to hate being treated like a child

• Help maintain a positive mindset by embracing their differences and focusing on their strengths rather than weaknesses

• Encourage social interaction. Humans are social beings. What makes someone with down syndrome any different

• Don't be embarrassed in public, we all have our differences and we each encounter different challenges 

• Support an active lifestyle. Not only can poor physical health have adverse effects on a person’s psychological state; but people with down syndrome often struggle to maintain a healthy weight due to lower metabolic rates and an increased presence of the hormone leptin (which causes weight gain).

• There is no 'one size fits all' approach. Everyone with down syndrome is different and should be treated for who they are, not their genetic condition

• Keep an eye on their health, and don't dismiss unusual symptoms by assuming it is part of being down syndrome. If concerned, get in touch with a GP or health-care professional.

• To support Australians living with down syndrome, visit 'Down Syndrome Australia' to inquire about advocacy, donations and fundraising events; otherwise, there are several organisations, such as NDIS , Achieve Australia etc.

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All proceeds from DownSide Up are donated to Down Syndrome Australia, who are dedicated to supporting Australians with down syndrome to provide them with the best start in life, a good education, meaningful employment, somewhere to live and active participation in the life of the community around them. DSA strive to give them every opportunity to live a long and happy life, fulfil their potential, embrace individuality, and accomplish their personal goals.