Autism spectrum disorder causes difficulties in communication as well as behavioral problems. Clients diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder often communicate, interact, behave, and learn differently than other people would. The severity of the disorder can range drastically, meaning that some may need assistance throughout most tasks in their daily lives, while others may not need any support from those around them.
The main symptoms of autism spectrum disorder include difficulties in social communication and interaction and restrictive/repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities.
Signs of autism spectrum disorder may be noticed in children from an early age:
- Not pointing at objects when directed to them
- Not pointing at objects to direct someone's attention to them
- Not being able to understand others' feelings, emotions, body language, or facial expressions
- Not being able to understand social cues
- Not interested in relating to others
- Avoiding eye contact
- Wanting to be alone
- Not being able to talk about their feelings and emotions
- Being interested in people but can't communicate with them
- Repeating words and phrases directed to them
- Not being able to express their needs
- Unable to accept changes to one's routines
- Unaware when others are talking to them but can respond to other sounds
According to the WHO, autism spectrum disorder is present in about 1 in 160 children worldwide. This statistic represents an average figure that has been gathered across several studies. Some studies have even reported a more significant number, while low- and middle-income countries have few studies and therefore require more extensive research in order to derive a prevalence rate.
Autism spectrum disorder is a life-long condition that, to this day, cannot be cured. Early intervention and effective treatment can significantly improve the individual's autonomy and capability to handle life's stressors. Having the right support system and social integration is also effective for creating a brighter future for those living with ASD. While the condition remains long-term, with the proper support from different people, individuals with ASD can function successfully throughout their lives.
As we've mentioned, taking note of a child's developmental milestones and age-appropriate behavior can help identify whether the child should seek an assessment to find out if help should be sought. If ASD is suspected, one should seek treatment early on to benefit from it as much as possible.
Autism spectrum disorder is one of the disorders that currently have no cure. However, it can be managed by using several types of treatments, including communication and behavior approaches, dietary approaches, and medication.
For the behavioral approaches, Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) is most commonly used to enhance positive behaviors and decrease negative behaviors in order to improve life skills for those diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. Other approaches, such as assistive technology, social skills training, speech therapy, and occupational therapy, are also used.
The dietary treatments focus on providing those diagnosed with ASD with the proper nutrients and vitamins to enhance their overall health, feelings, and behavior.
Medications are also used to improve their symptoms, but they should be discussed in detail with the healthcare provider and the caregiver to weigh out the pros and cons of using medications.
The most important aspect of treatment for ASD is early intervention. It is important to seek help as early as possible in order to see more effective results.
