Once upon a time..
Autism was defined by two types: Asperger’s and low functioning. As time progressed researchers have discovered that Autism is a spectrum.
What does that mean?
Imagine regular blue Crayola crayon instead of just dark blue and light blue. You have an array of mixed shades of blue. Each adult and/or child diagnosed with Autism disorder represents their own shade of blue.
Today we know longer follow the 5 outdated Autism diagnoses. The five outdated Autism diagnosis are
“(1) Asperger’s Syndrome
(2) Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD)
(3) Childhood Disintegrative Disorder
(4) Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS)
(5) Rett Syndrome (Rudy, 2021)”.
Despite numerous research studies, there is no clear and concise cause of Autism.
There are however some strong factors that contribute to the progression of this mental health disorder.
The CDC reports the following as risk factors for Autism Spectrum disorder:
“(1) Having certain genetic or chromosomal conditions (fragile X syndrome or tuberous sclerosis)
(2) Experiencing complications at birth
(3) Being born to older parents (CDC, 2022)”
Autism is not a two way street anymore, there are a lot of bumps and curves to pass through in order to find the best treatment modality.
Individuals diagnosed with ASD require extra support to handle day to day issues.
As we know children with ASD struggle to follow social cues, they may restrict or repeat certain behaviors. The American Psychiatric Association (2023) notes the following as treatment modalities to treat ASD;
- Applied behavioral analysis: studies a child’s functional challenges, which is used to create a structured behavioral plan.
- Social skills training: intervention helps children with autism improve their ability to navigate social situations.
- Speech & language therapy: Improve the child’s speech patterns and understanding of language
- Occupational therapy: Addresses adaptive skills deficits
- Parent management training: Parents learn effective ways of responding to problematic behavior and encouraging appropriate behavior in their child.
- Special education services: An Individual Education Plan provided by their school, which accommodates their social communication deficits, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviors.
- Treating co-occurring conditions: Children with autism experience insomnia, anxiety, and depression more often than peers without autism.
- Medication: A child psychiatrist can evaluate for co-morbid depression, anxiety, and impulsivity. If appropriate medications can be helpful.
These modalities are meant to teach children with ASD how to function day to day. Meaning they would be learning skills on how to improve their relationships, social skills and how to better communicate their needs.
Clients diagnosed with ASD are also likely to develop another comorbid diagnosis.
According to the American Psychiatric Association reports that, “about 70% of individuals with autism spectrum disorder may have one comorbid mental disorder ( ie: Anxiety, depression, and ADHD are particularly common Children with ASD)(APA,2022)”.
It’s important to note that you are not the only one who struggles to get the best care for your child or loved one.
Sometimes you have to advocate for them in order to get results. Don’t be afraid to ask your primary care provider for resources within your community.
Many providers recommend a structured routine for individuals with ASD. Structure provides clients a sense of comfort because they know what to expect.
Some experts recommend a combination of therapy and medications to treat Autism. This treatment combination allows patients to learn how to deal with their new diagnoses. There are many resources available to help address any inquiries that you have. Visit AUTISM SPEAKS ORGANIZATION for more information (Autism Speaks Incorporation, 2023).
This post was written by Jasmine P., and published by Convenient Counseling Services.
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References:
American Psychiatric Association. (2023b). What is autism spectrum disorder?. Psychiatry.org. https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/autism/what-is-autism-spectrum-disorder
American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed., text rev.). https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.books.9780890425787
