Understanding Autism Treatments

Education & Development Blog

A developmental disorder is a condition wherein one experiences problems in normal childhood brain development and ends up with deficits. Autism spectrum disorder is one of the most common developmental disorders. It occurs in one in every 68 children in the United States. Autism can be detected while a child is still younger than a toddler, but the condition is not one with a "cure," so to speak. Symptoms of autism include failure to maintain relationships and everyday conversation, poor nonverbal communication (such as not being able to hold eye contact), and repetitive, rigid behaviors. The cause of autism is controversial, but scientists say it may be due to genetics in combination with other factors.

Sensory Processing

Another area in which people with autism sometimes have difficulty is sensory processing. This means they have trouble dealing with different stimuli of the five senses. One might be intolerant of certain tastes or food consistencies. One might have over-the-top negative reactions to loud noise or find the sensation of showers unbearable. Sensory processing problems occur in many different people and not just those with autism. It can be a tough problem to address. Sensory processing disorder is actually a separate disorder from autism spectrum disorder, but the conditions frequently co-occur. In addition to sensory processing, some children with autism have trouble with speech and language at first.     

Treatment for Autism 

Autism treatments are most effective when the condition is diagnosed at an early age. While there is no cure for autism, educational, behavioral, and family therapies can help tremendously in many cases. The following treatments are all used for autism.

  • Family therapy is where all or part of a family speaks to the same therapist who helps them address serious problems that may affect all of them.
  • Applied behavior analysis is a process in therapy where troublesome behaviors and the interventions for each are analyzed.
  • Anger management therapy can help children and young adults learn ways to cope with and reduce anger.
  • Occupational therapy may help children with poor motor skills or sensory processing problems.
  • Speech therapy identifies a child's speech problems and helps them learn to communicate better. 
  • Medication depends on the specific problems the child or patient has. Different medications target different symptoms. Antipsychotic medications and SSRI medications are often the ones prescribed. 

For help understanding autism treatment options and pursuing further care, contact a clinic like Functionabilities Pediatric Therapy.

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20 July 2017

Becoming an Adult

Have you recently moved into your own place for the first time in your life? Perhaps, you just graduated from high school and moved into a college dorm room. Or, you might have recently bought your first home after landing the job of your dreams. If you’re independent for the first time, consider enrolling in some continuing education classes to help you thrive. For instance, you might learn important financial concepts in a money management course. If you’ve never prepared a meal without the aid of a microwave, you may adore attending a cooking class. On this blog, I hope you will discover the numerous ways everyone can benefit from taking continuing education courses. Enjoy!