Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

A kind of developing disorder that may appear appears in initial 3 years of a child’s life is Autism. Autism affects the social and communication of a child. It is also related to the physical, abnormal, biology ical and chemical activity in the brain. Those who have autism may lack in nonverbal communicating, normal social interacting, and other activities that also include elements of play.

As a parent, you must gain a thorough understanding of this disorder so that you can adequately care for your children. Providing autistic children with emotional support can ensure they will go through life with the confidence they need to tackle any problem. This article will discuss the symptoms and treatment methods for Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Autism Symptoms

In situations where the symptoms of autism are subtle, or when this condition is overtaken by more prominent handicaps, the condition may be overlooked. Moreover, no medical test exists which can reliably recognise this condition. Medical professionals diagnose patients with autism by observing their behaviour and development. It should be noted that no two people with autism will have precisely similar symptoms; some will have mild symptoms while others may have severe ones. Some things to watch for in a developing child are listed below. If you detect these signs in your child, you must seek further assessment by an expert.

• Inability to produce age-relevant actions, such as beginning to respond to name by nine months, babbling and pointing by age 1, speaking two-word phrases by age 2, etc. 

• Difficulty in engaging with peers and creating friendships

• Incapacity to communicate with people efficiently

• Lack of imagination

• Repetitive and unusual manner of speaking

• Focused attention in only a limited range of areas

• Obsessive fixation on particular objects and routines

• Participating in routines and rituals with extreme rigidness.

• Avoidance of eye contact

• Unstable mood and excessive fear

There is no cure for Autism. Therapy and rehabilitation can help with behavioral remedies. In time they can help symptoms and cause incredible progress.  It is better to start treatments at the earliest Autism is detected. It is always better when the treatment is individualized to target the child’s specific needs.

If you have recently become aware that your child is Autistic, it is understandable if you feel a little scared. You may feel like there is no hope for this condition. While Autism may not be curable with proper treatment and with ample love and support from home, your child can learn and grow into a healthy adult.

Treatment for Autism

There is no cure for Autism Spectrum Disorder. However, therapy and rehabilitation can help with behavioural remedies. In time they can help reduce the symptoms and cause incredible progress.  It is better if the treatment is started at the earliest and is individualised to target the child’s specific needs. Various treatment methods for autism are discussed below:

• Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is used to study the patients’ behaviours, encourage positive behaviours (through rewards), and discourage undesirable ones.

• Pivotal Response Training (PRT) imparts essential skills  like communication skills to patients.

• Developmental models are also used, such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, sensory integration therapy, etc.

• The Treatment and Education of Autistic and Related Communication-Handicapped Children (TEACCH) approach uses verbal and visual aids to improve the academic outcomes of autistic children.

• Developmental, Individual Differences, Relationship-Based approach (also known as ‘Floor time’), Relationship Development Intervention (RDI) approach, and Social Skills Group help patients build social skills in a controlled environment involving parents and peers.

• Though there are no medications which can directly cure autism, symptom-managing medicine exists. For instance, medicines can be taken to manage energy levels, anxiety, and others issues which often co-exist with Autism.

• Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (CBT) can help with psychological complications that arise due to Autism. CBT can help patients investigate and reframe their existing thought patterns to improve mental peace.

• Alternative therapies like mindfulness, art therapy, special diets, herbal supplements, etc., are also being taken up by individuals in addition to traditional treatments. They should, however, be adopted after due consultation with medical professionals.

Conclusion

If you have recently become aware that your child is Autistic, it is understandable if you feel a little scared. You may feel like there is no hope for this condition. While Autism Spectrum Disorder may not be curable, with proper treatment and support from home, your child can learn and grow into a healthy adult.