A developmental disorder known as autism, often known as an autism spectrum disorder, is characterized by difficulties with behavior, social interaction, and communication. Each person will have a unique experience with the illness as it is a chronic disease.

Problems or discrepancies with motor skills, as well as with intellectual and social abilities, are symptoms. People with autism spectrum disorder may learn, behave, think, communicate, and interact in different ways than those without the illness.

Because there is such a wide range in the kinds of symptoms people experience and the intensity of those symptoms, autism is known as a spectrum illness.

Although symptoms might vary greatly, they typically start to show before the age of three. Parents may observe signs related to their children's social interaction, responsiveness to stimuli, and communication skills. Repetitive behaviors, narrow interests, and social interaction issues are all signs of autism.

Although those with autism spectrum condition may not exhibit all of these signs, they frequently do:

• Making eye contact difficult
• Having trouble listening to and participating in talks
• When habits are even slightly disturbed, it causes extreme distress
• Inconsistent facial emotions with spoken communication
• Intense passion for specific topics
• Inability to enjoy activities
• Issues with verbalizing wants or feelings
• Doing no "pretend" play
• Slow or nonexistent response to requests for their attention
• Sensitivity to tastes, smells, and other sensory cues
• Stuttering actions (i.e., self-stimulating, repetitive actions such as rocking, walking on toes, or flapping hands)
• Having a hard time understanding other people's perspectives

It's crucial to keep in mind that because autism is a spectrum disorder, individuals may experience mild, moderate, or severe symptoms. Many symptoms may be present in some people, though they may just be mildly felt.

In certain cases, patients may only have a few symptoms in crucial specters, yet those symptoms cause serious impairments.

Milder autistic symptoms often don't interfere with a person's ability to go about their everyday life, but they can increase the risk of other mental health difficulties like excessive stress, obsessive behaviours, sensory problems, anxiety, and depression.

Autism can affect people from various socioeconomic backgrounds, and racial and ethnic groups, and is typically diagnosed in children.

Causes of Autism

Even while the precise origins are unknown, research indicates that the disorder probably has a genetic component.

Studies demonstrating that children who have a sibling with autism are at a higher risk of having autism are among the evidence that suggests a genetic relationship.

Only 20% of the cases, according to the study, can be directly attributed to genetic factors. While studies have indicated that genes play a significant role, premature birth, and old paternal age have also been connected to the development of autism.

Pregnancy-related use of some medications has been associated with an increased risk for autistic spectrum disorder.

It has been shown through research that immunizations do not cause autism.

Treatment of Autism

Although autism is a lifelong disorder, there are treatments that can ease many symptoms and enhance a person's capacity for functioning in various spheres of life.

The National Institute of Mental Health advises that treatment should start as soon as feasible after a diagnosis.

The most effective treatments vary widely. Since autism symptoms can take many different forms, each person's needs are unique. Medication and online autism counselling are a few of the possible treatment methods.

1. Medications

Although there isn't a drug that has been licensed to treat autism, a doctor or psychiatrist may prescribe a prescription to treat a symptom.

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), antipsychotics, stimulants, anti-anxiety drugs, and anticonvulsants are a few examples of pharmaceuticals that may help with symptoms like:

• Aggression
• Anxiety
• Attention Issues
• Depression
• Hyperactivity
• Improper language
• Irritability
• Social isolation

Applied Behavior Therapy for Holistic Development of Autistic Kid

Interventions in behaviour, psychology, or skill training are frequently the mainstays of autism treatment.

Applied behavior analysis (ABA), a type of therapy that employs reinforcements to teach and reinforce desired behaviours and skills, is one often employed strategy.

The following are some additional treatments frequently used to treat autism:

1. Psychological counselling (CBT)

2. Individual and developmental differences in relationship counselling, commonly referred to as "floortime"

3. Early behavioral intervention that is intensive

4. Therapeutic Pivoting

5. Relationship-building activity

6. Behavioural verbal treatment

These therapies are intended to assist those with autism spectrum disorder in:

• Cultivate mental faculties
• Accentuate existing virtues
• Boost your language and communication abilities.
• Enhance social skills
• Acquire adaptable abilities for independent existence.

Assistive technology, Speech therapy, occupational therapy, and social skills instruction are among other therapies that might be used. Aspects of caregiver training, wherein parents and other caregivers develop abilities to support what is being worked on in treatment, are also frequently incorporated into the treatment.

Complex conditions like autism can impair a person to varying degrees and have wide-ranging effects on their daily lives. There are many different forms of treatment and services available to help, and early intervention is crucial. The correct medical care can help you or a loved one function more independently and lead a fulfilling life.

Seeking professional help from an experienced Kid Therapist can make all the difference in tackling autism and related issues.

Contact TalktoAngel, Asia's top mental health platform, whether you are looking for a "Psychologist near me" or the Best Therapist in India for Online Counselling.

Contributed By- Dr (Prof) R K Suri, Best Clinical Psychologist & Life Coach & Ms. Varshini Nayyar, Psychologist