What is the definition of autism?
Autism spectrum disorders are a disorder that affects the way that a person acts or socializes with other people. It was previously classified into various conditions like Asperger’s disorder. It’s now viewed as an illness that has a broad variety of symptoms and severity.
Although it’s now referred to as Autism Spectrum Disorder, a lot of people still refer to it as “autism.”
There is no cure for autism, however, there are a variety of strategies that can aid in improving the social skills, education, and quality of life of those with autism. Keep in mind it’s a spectrum-based disorder. Some individuals may require very little or no assistance however, others may need intense therapy.
It’s important to keep in mind that much of the research that is related to the treatment of autism is focused on children. This is due to existing research conducted by Trusted Source suggests that assistance is most effective if it is initiated before the age of three. However, many options are designed for children that can be beneficial to adults too.
Find out more about the many methods of treating autism.
Table of Contents
A Behavioral Analysis of Applied Behavior
Applied behavioral analysis (ABA) is among the most popular options for children and adults. It is a set of methods designed to promote positive behavior using the reward system.
There is a variety of ABA that include:
- Training for trial-based learning in a discrete manner. This technique uses the use of a series of tests to promote learning through step-by-step. Correct responses and behaviors are rewarded and mistakes are not penalized.
- Early intensive behavior Intervention. Children, generally less than 5 years old are paired up one-on-one with a therapist, or in small groups. The process is usually carried out over a period of years to help children improve their communication skills and decrease negative behaviors such as anger or self-harm.
- Training in Pivotal Response. This is a method used in a person’s daily setting to teach pivotal skills, for example, the drive to develop or start a conversation.
- Intervention for verbal behaviour. A therapist works with an individual to help them understand the reasons and how we make use of the language of communication to get the things they need.
- Positive behavior supports. This involves making modifications to the environment of the classroom or home so that good behavior can feel more rewarding.
Cognitive therapy for behavioral disorders
Cognitive-behavioral treatment (CBT) is a form of therapy for a talk that is efficient in helping children and adults. In CBT sessions, participants are taught about the relationships between their thoughts, feelings, and behavior. This helps to pinpoint the thoughts and emotions that can trigger negative behaviors.
A review from a 2010 review trusted Source indicates that CBT is especially beneficial in helping autistic people overcome anxiety. CBT can also assist people with autism to recognize the emotions in others and to cope better in social situations.
Social skills training
SST is a form of social skill training (SST) that provides a means for children, and especially adults to build social abilities. For people who have autism, communicating with others is a challenge. This can cause many problems over time.
Anyone who participates in SST acquires the fundamental skills of social interaction that include the ability to conduct an exchange, recognize the humor of others, and recognize emotional signals. Although it’s typically utilized with youngsters, SST may also be beneficial for adolescents or young adults in their 20s and early 20s.
Therapy for sensory integration
Autism sufferers are often very sensitive to sensory inputs, like hearing, sight, or smell. The social integration treatment is founded on the notion that having certain senses amplified makes it difficult to master and demonstrate positive behaviors.
SIT attempts to balance the person’s reaction to stimuli. It’s typically performed through an occupational therapy therapist. It involves play, for example, drawing in the sand or playing with a rope.
The field of occupational therapy
Occupational therapy (OT) is a branch of medicine that is focused on teaching adults and children the basic skills they require to use in daily life. Children, for instance, typically involve teaching fine motor abilities writing skills, handwriting, and self-care techniques.
In the case of adults, OT concentrates on developing the ability to live independently like cooking cleaning, washing, and managing money.
Speech Therapy
Speech therapy is a method of teaching the ability to speak, which can aid people with autism in communicating more effectively. It is usually conducted by occupational therapy.
It is a great way to help children increase the speed and frequency of their speaking, and also make the right use of words. It can also assist adults to improve the way they express their feelings and thoughts.
Medication
There aren’t any medicines specifically for treating autism. However, some medications prescribed for other conditions that be related to autism may aid in addressing certain signs.
The medications used to treat autism fall into one or two major categories:
- Antipsychotics HTML0. Some newer antipsychotic medication may be helpful in reducing aggression, self-harm, as well as issues with behavior in children and adults who have autism. In the past, FDA last week approved the treatment of the risperidone (Risperdal) along with Apripiprazole (Abilify) in order to help treat the signs of autism.
- antidepressants. While many people who have autism use antidepressants, experts aren’t sure if they really help with autism-related symptoms. However, they could be beneficial in treating the disorder of obsessive compulsiveness as well as depression and anxiety in those with autism.
- stimulants. Stimulants, such as methylphenidate (Ritalin) are commonly employed to treat ADHD however, they can assist with autism-related symptoms, such as inattention or hyperactivity. A review published in 2015 by Trusted Source reviewing the effectiveness of medication in autism found that around half of children diagnosed with Autism benefit from stimulants however, some suffer negative reactions.
- Anticonvulsants. Some people with autism also suffer from epilepsy and, as such, antiseizure drugs can be prescribed.
What are alternatives to HTML0?
There are numerous alternatives to consider. But, there’s not much solid evidence to support these strategies and it’s not clear if they’re effective. Certain methods include chelation therapy can also do more harm than good.
However, the spectrum of autism is wide. a condition that triggers a wide range of signs. Even if something isn’t working for someone else doesn’t mean it can’t benefit someone else. Make sure to consult with a doctor in your search for alternatives. A qualified doctor can help you to navigate the research that surrounds these options, and steer clear of potentially risky procedures that aren’t supported by scientific evidence.
Alternative options that may require more thorough studies could include:
- gluten-free, casein-free diet
- blankets with weighted edges
- Melatonin
- vitamin C
- omega-3 fat acids
- dimethylglycine
- magnesium and vitamin B-6
- oxytocin
- CBD oil
If you’re not at ease discussing alternative treatments with your doctor, you might consider seeking out a different medical professional to provide the appropriate assistance.
It’s the bottom line
Autism is a challenging disorder that has no cure. There are, however, various therapeutic strategies and medications that may help in managing the symptoms. Talk to your physician to determine the most effective plan of care for your child or yourself.
