Understanding Autism - An Introduction

ASD or “Autism” is a neurodevelopmental Mental Health condition. It is defined as where a child or an adult face some social challenges and demonstrates repetitive behaviours. The behaviours come across through his or her speech and way of communication.

It's important to recognise that everyone's experience with Autism is unique. The way people with Autism present themselves to others can be influenced by the quality of care they receive and their home environment. Despite their diagnosis, an autistic person is an individual with their own unique personality, strengths, and weaknesses. It's also important to understand that people with autism possess learning abilities that can range from highly skilled problem solving to significant challenges. Therefore, it's essential to offer tailored help to meet their specific needs. By understanding and accommodating these differences, we can better support individuals with autism and help them achieve their full potential.

• Struggle to maintain eye contact with another person.
• Pay intense attention to certain or particular objects or topics.
• High repetition of action over and over again.
• Sensitivity to touch, smell and sounds. A person with Autism may be highly sensitive to certain sensory stimuli.
• An autistic person may find it hard to maintain eye contact with someone talking to them.
• Avoids hugs, kisses and close affection.
• Trouble or struggles with changes in daily routines.

Though yet unclear, researchers have found risk factors for autism. Events early in the pregnancy. Exposure to the virus, especially for expecting mothers in their first few months should be reduced. Ultimately, what a mother takes in during her pregnancy is shared together with her unborn child. Furthermore; parents age, family history and pre-term births are possible risk factors.

We don’t have a good understanding of autism. That is to say, some scientists see Autism as a group of different conditions. Others view it as a spectrum. A lack of understanding can make it hard for parents and carers. Therefore, more research into autism is needed.

To ensure that children with Autism receive proper care and support, it is essential to have them undergo developmental screening conducted by a doctor. This screening evaluates a child's speech, movements, and behavior, and experts recommend that it should be done as early as 9 months. If the screening shows signs of autism, a thorough evaluation is necessary. This evaluation includes learning assessments and behavioral observations, and may involve the assistance of a psychiatrist, occupational therapist, or psychologist. By following these steps, parents can help their child receive the proper diagnosis and care they need.

Treatment for autism may range from behavioural or communication therapy to promote positive growth and behaviour. However, occupational therapy can help with social behaviour and sensory blend therapy. Therefore, it can help with developing an autistic person’s reaction to touch, sight or sound. In addition, speech therapy can help improve an autistic person’s communication skills.

In conclusion, if your child experiences autism or if you sense that your child has autism, get help from your doctor. Your general practitioner can refer you to specialists in mental health. It can include psychiatry or psychology services. Do not delay calling your family doctor. Get the help you or your family need today.