Autism, known as Autism Spectrum Disorder can be identified and diagnosed, as early as 2 years. It is known as a spectrum as each autistic person is unique and has varying layers of severity. Autism can be detected as early as 18 months of age, by tracking milestones and observing behaviors.

There are some common symptoms of autism, which if kept in mind can be diagnosed in early life. Some of them include difficulty in speech and communication such as difficulty in pointing to their needs and wants, having delayed speech, and sometimes being nonverbal. They may also face social issues such as sitting with a group, communicating with children their age, and not developing a relationship with the parents or the guardian. In addition, another common symptom of autism includes repetitive behaviors such as continuously rocking, flapping their hands, or stomping. All these observable symptoms can be an indication of an autism condition.

The reason for cause of autism is still unknown. However, researchers suggest that some genetic and environmental factors play a role in the cause of autism. Research suggests that there are some genes that can cause autism in children, although have not pointed out which gene can be responsible. Certain infections and prenatal exposure to chemicals can also play a significant role in causing autism, but it is important to note that the vast majority of environmental factors have not been shown to directly cause autism, and more research is needed to better understand the relationship between environmental factors and autism. There is a possibility of a mixture of certain genes and environmental factors that go hand in hand to cause autism, but there is no proven evidence. Understanding the main cause behind autism is still not fully known to us, and continuous research in the field is in process in order to better the treatment and intervention for autistic individuals.

While there is no known cause for autism, and is a life-long condition, there are various treatment facilities and interventions that can help autistic children cope and support their condition. The main kinds of therapy to support the symptoms would include:

• Speech and Language Therapy
• Occupational Therapy, and
• Behavior or ABA Therapy

Speech and Language Therapy

Speech and Language therapy helps children with communication and speech issues. It focuses on improving their spoken language aiding them to communicate verbally, using non-verbal communication for non-speaking individuals, and mainly allows them to communicate with others by helping them understand and interpret the language and signs. Speech therapy can help individuals with autism to develop better language skills, such as improving their ability to express themselves and communicate their needs and wants. It can also help with developing social communication skills, such as taking turns in conversation, making eye contact, and understanding social cues. It can also help with the development of nonverbal communication skills, such as using gestures and facial expressions to convey meaning.

Occupational Therapy

Children with autism may have certain challenges with their motor skills. The main aim of occupational therapy is to focus on improving motor skills and helping them have a hassle-free daily life of continuing without the limitation of performing their day-to-day activities and indulging in the social world. Occupational therapy can help individuals with autism to develop better fine motor skills, such as handwriting and using utensils, as well as improve gross motor skills, such as coordination and balance. It can also help with sensory processing difficulties, such as sensitivity to certain textures or sounds, and can provide strategies for managing these sensitivities. Occupational therapy can also help with developing social skills, such as engaging in play and participating in group activities. It can also provide strategies for managing challenging behaviors and developing independence.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

Applied Behavior Analysis is a commonly used intervention for individuals with autism, and it focuses on the principles of behavior and learning. ABA therapy uses positive reinforcement to encourage positive behaviors and discourage negative behaviors, and it can be used to address a wide range of skills, such as communication, social skills, and daily living skills. It is usually one-on-one therapy having interventions that are customized to the child’s needs based on the area of focus. ABA therapy can be useful for tackling challenging behaviors and various interventions can be used to overcome the same. Managing behaviors such as tantrums and aggression and identification of the same. ABA, all in all, is an effective therapeutic treatment for learning, behavior management, and improving social skills.

Each and every autistic individual are unique in their own way. It becomes the responsibility of society to make this world inclusive for every person and focus on building healthy relationships with one another. The severity and intensity are varied from person to person and bringing in early intervention and support is most effective for these individuals to thrive and have fulfilling lives.