Autism Introduction
A physiological and behavioral condition known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), well known as autism, has an impact on a person's ability to learn, behave, connect with others, and communicate. It manifests in many ways and to differing degrees of intensity. Those with autism spectrum disorders can display variances in their behavior, social interactions, and communications. Said by the Autism Research Institute, The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) defines two primary categories of symptoms, namely: difficulties in social communication and interaction and limited, reoccurring habits, passions, or ambitions. Although a diagnosis may come later, these symptoms manifest early in a child's development. When developmental difficulties caused by autism symptoms cannot be properly explained by other illnesses, the condition is diagnosed.
Autism Characteristics:
Today, we can somewhat easily find and spot people with autism. The behavioral symptoms may be: lessened eye contact, variations in nonverbal signals, absence of expression on the face, not playing creatively, repeating sounds or movements, specific passions and, ignorance of concern for severe temperatures. These are but a handful of the signs and symptoms that someone with autism may encounter. Any person may exhibit any, all, or none of these signs. We must acknowledge that an individual does not always have autism only because they exhibit these signs. Autism spectrum disorder can only be diagnosed by a trained medical practitioner. Above all, it's critical to keep in mind that a person with autism is an individual. Understanding the symptoms is not the same as getting to know the person with autism; while it can help us begin to comprehend some of the behaviors and difficulties associated with the condition. Like us, every individual with autism has unique strengths, likes, dislikes, interests, problems, and talents. This means everyone is good in their own way!
Co-occurring illnesses:
With the negative side of autism, co-occurring illnesses can all be brought, including: depression, anxiousness, seizures, immunity and digestive issues, abnormal metabolism and insomnia. It can occasionally be difficult to diagnose co-occurring illnesses since the symptoms of these disorders can resemble or conceal those of autism. Yet, detecting and treating these disorders can help prevent consequences and enhance the quality of life for autistic people.
Types of Autism:
Furthermore, there are few types of autism which are the following:
Asperger's syndrome:
On IQ tests, children with Asperger's syndrome typically receive average or above-average scores. However, they could struggle with social skills and have a limited range of interests.
Autistic disorder:
When most individuals hear the word autism, they think of autistic disorder. In children less than three years old, it has an impact on play, social relationships, and communication.
Childhood disintegrative disorder:
After at least two years of regular development, children with this disorder lose most or all of their social and communicative abilities.
Atypical autism or Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD):
If an individual doesn't fall into another group but exhibits some autistic characteristics, such as deficits in social and communication skills, doctors may use this phrase.
Autism correlating with genetics:
Many people ask, “is autism genetic”? Well the answer is, gene combinations may raise a child's chance of autism because the condition runs in families. More than 1,000 variations in genes may be connected to autism. But not all of them have been verified by professionals. Between 40 and 80% of an individual's risk of autism can be attributed to genetic factors. The mix of your genes, environment, parents' ages, and any birth difficulties will determine your total risk. Approximately 2% to 4% of cases of autism are probably the result of a single unusual gene mutation or chromosomal abnormality. This typically occurs with disorders, such as ADNP gene mutations, that also impact other sections of the body. A person with ADNP syndrome will have certain facial characteristics and exhibit symptoms of autism.
Treatments:
One will always be affected by autism if they have it. However, one with autism might grow very differently if they receive therapy early enough. Potential treatment include:
Behavioral:
Behavioral therapy assists an individual in comprehending the origins and consequences of their actions, enabling them to modify undesired habits.
Developmental:
Developmental therapy focuses on living skills like eating and dressing, physical therapy enhances motor function, and speech therapy helps patients communicate more effectively.
Psychological:
Psychological therapy helps individuals manage their anxiety, sadness, or other mental health conditions with the use of therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). (besides autism)
Educational:
Strongly organized educational programs are frequently beneficial for kids with autism spectrum disorder. A group of experts and a variety of activities aimed at enhancing behavior, social skills, and communication are common features of effective programs.
Social-relational:
The goal of social-relational therapy is to improve social skills and connections with others.
Medication:
Varieties of medication for autism can help reduce anxiety, hyperactivity, and attention issues that are signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder.
These are just a small number of the most effective early treatments for autism; however, complete recovery is not always guaranteed.
Conclusion:
Autism is a developmental condition that is bio-neurological and often manifests during early childhood. It affects every aspects of life to varying degrees. This doesn't mean they can't live a normal life. In fact, most people with the proper care and resources will live a prosperous and fulfilling life! Your contribution will directly contribute to the enhancement of the quality of life of many people and their close ones affected by this common but often misunderstood condition.
What you can do!
Join the autism walk day event! Link to walk day
Or, Join the autism field day for all! Link to field day
Or, Join an autism-only event! Link to event dates
Or, Advocate for autism! Link to Association for Autism
Resources
“What Is Autism?” Autism Research Institute, 29 May 2024, autism.org/what-is-autism/.
Benisek, Alexandra. “Understanding Autism -- the Basics.” WebMD, WebMD, Apr. 2002, www.webmd.com/brain/autism/understanding-autism-basics.
“Autism Spectrum Disorder - Diagnosis and Treatment - Mayo Clinic.” Www.mayoclinic.org, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/autism-spectrum-disorder/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352934#:~:text=Treatment%20options%20may%20include%3A%201%20Behavior%20and%20communication.