ASD affects people in different ways and to varying degrees. Some people with ASD are perfectly verbal; others may only speak a few words or phrases. Some require significant support in daily living; others relatively little. Many individuals with ASD excel in visual skills, music, math, and the arts. shake, spin, or flick their fingers or hands repetitively; some arrange objects or toys in specific, repeating patterns.
Children with ASD all share certain social deficits that become more apparent as they grow older and move into new environments like preschool or kindergarten. With the help of early diagnosis and intervention, many children with ASD acquire communication and self-care skills and learn to interact more effectively with others, says Dr Michael Hilton.
How is autism diagnosed?
There is no medical test for ASD. Neurologists, psychiatrists, psychologists, and other medical professionals work together as part of an interdisciplinary team to diagnose autism. They gather information from parents or other caregivers about the child’s development and behavior and then observe the child themselves.
A diagnosis of ASD requires a comprehensive developmental evaluation that often includes specifically trained clinicians and health care professionals, such as speech pathologists and occupational therapists who can assess developmental delays. A final diagnosis is based on the child’s present functioning as well as his or her developmental history.
What causes autism?
The cause(s) of ASD remains unknown but there is growing evidence that suggests that it occurs due to abnormalities in brain structure or function. Researchers are investigating a number of possible genetic and environmental factors—alone or in combination—that may increase the risk of developing ASD.
Increasingly, studies are finding links between these prenatal/postnatal risks and molecular changes in specific regions of the brain associated with autism (Braunschweig 2007; Riviere 2005). These studies provide hope that future research may identify more definite causes—and eventually lead to means of preventing autism altogether.
Currently, there is no known way to prevent ASD but we do know that early intervention leads to significantly better outcomes for people with ASD than those who do not receive intervention until later in childhood or adulthood.
To raise awareness and educate the public on autism, April is recognized as “Autism Awareness Month”. During this time, many organizations and local communities come together to share information, stories, and resources about autism. With the help of early diagnosis and intervention, many children with ASD can lead fulfilling lives.
How to accept diversity?
Learn about what some common characteristics are so you can begin to look out for them in yourself or loved ones! early intervention Is key so get support as soon as possible if you need it! Embrace your quirks because they make You – You! And don’t forget – Neurodiversity Is natural diversity!
Conclusion:
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurobehavioral condition that affects people in different ways and to varying degrees.
Many individuals with ASD excel in visual skills, music, math, and the arts but share certain social deficits that become more apparent as they grow older which can make it difficult for them to interact with others.
With the help of early diagnosis and intervention, many children with ASD acquire communication and self-care skills and learn to interact more effectively with others.
