General description
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects speech and behavior. “Neurodevelopment” denotes a connection between the condition and the growth of the nervous system.
Symptoms usually appear in childhood, usually between 12 and 24 months. However, a correct diagnosis cannot be made once, mainly if the symptoms are mild.
Doctors refer to ASD as being on a spectrum rather than having consistent symptoms that all people with the disorder will experience because symptoms differ from person to person.
Most experts agree that autism cannot be cured. Because of this, many of them treat ASD with an approach that emphasizes symptom management or skill development and support, including behavioral, psychological, and educational therapy.
What are the ASD treatments available?
Doctors who treat ASD recognize the importance of starting supportive therapy as soon as possible.
The goal is to improve young children’s social skills, reduce their social anxiety, and curb problem behaviors. Typically, these services are provided to children up to three years old.
Otherwise, all treatment plans will address and include some form of speech, behavioral, and occupational therapy when autism spectrum disorder is mild to severe.
As children grow and begin school, research has shown that many can benefit from specific Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), which share the same goals of improving behavior, self-care, and communication.
Adolescent psychiatrists may also recommend medications to treat conditions such as depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), which is frequently seen in ASD.
When it comes to specific therapy alternatives, applied behavior analysis is a method used by many therapists, educational institutions, and practitioners (ABA). Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) aims to promote healthy behaviors to teach and improve various skills.
Other types of treatment consist of:
Development of social skills.
Sensory integration therapy.
Occupational therapy.
Although searching for resources can sometimes be overwhelming, remember that professionals can help people with ASD and their loved ones.
How to help someone with ASD?
It is helpful to know how you can help someone with ASD while caring for and receiving professional support for that person.
Below are some methods to help, promote and help your loved one develop their skills.
Make them feel protected and loved.
The most important aspect of providing care to someone with ASD is making them feel safe and loved.
Stay in touch with your group.
Staying in touch with your doctor, therapist, teachers, and other professionals will make it easier to fulfill your daily responsibilities.
This may involve asking for advice on how to help your child continue practicing the skills they are learning during treatment so they can be more successful.
Think about the environment. The severity of symptoms can vary depending on what you do at home. One tip is to maintain a predictable workplace. Another is to follow a schedule. It’s a good idea to minimize sensory stimuli at home, such as noise and activity level.
Have moving routines. When faced with a new circumstance, plan ahead for what might happen. This could facilitate a much easier transition. Take familiar and cozy things with you.
Slow down Provide information clearly and concisely. You should strive to be precise, clear and concrete. Give them time to respond.
Promote constructive behavior To help your child with schedules and daily tasks, consider using visual aids. The behavioral strategies they are acquiring in therapy must be reinforced. We can celebrate the excellent by recognizing and applauding talents and skills.
Stay up to date with the latest trends Arming yourself with reliable resources and knowledge about autism is a crucial step parents can take to support a child with ASD.
Recognizing neurodiversity It is essential to recognize and value neurodiversity when caring for a person with ASD. When ASD is analyzed from this perspective, it helps eliminate the stigma that often accompanies the diagnosis and allows one to accept differences as normal and not as a disability.
Find a support group for people with autism. As you connect through shared experiences, reaching out to others in the community can help you gain new knowledge, offer advice and ideas for handling situations, and feel encouraged.
Take some time for yourself. Set aside time each day for yourself. Self-care is essential to caring for someone, even if it’s just for a short period to exercise, read, or spend time with a friend.
