6 Things You Should Know About Autism Spectrum Disorder

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Marleny Hucks
Marleny Huckshttp://MyrtleBeachSC.com
Marlene (or Marleny as she is known in Spanish) is a mentor, teacher, cross-cultural trainer, storyteller, writer, and for those who have been under her leadership or simply sat across the table from her, she is a mirror of destiny. Her love of word and image were formed early on by one of her heroes, Dr. Seuss. If you asked those who know her well, they would describe her a compassionate, funny, wise, curious, honest, real, strong, sensitive and totally human which comes out as she teaches and writes. She sees all of life, even the most mundane, through faith and believes that who we become as we live this side of the veil is what matters not the journey itself or our circumstances. Marleny Hucks has spent her life crossing bridges. She comes from a diverse background of ministry roles and contexts as well as has transitioned in and out of the business world. Having lived outside the country as well as traveled extensively she has a fascination with culture causes her to live her life within a global mosaic no matter where her feet are planted. Marlene currently lives in South Carolina with her husband David, who owns a news company but who she says is a “crime fighter”, bringing light into darkness in their systems of their city. Marleny currently works as a content management specialist covering Myrtle Beach News for MyrtleBeachSC News.

1 in 68 children is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That’s a lot of people, making ASD one of the most common developmental disorders in the United States. But what is it? And what does it mean for those who are diagnosed with it?

Here are six things you should know about autism spectrum disorder.

It Is Very Complex

ASD is a developmental disorder that affects how people perceive and interact with the world around them. People with ASD may have trouble communicating or interacting socially, and they may also struggle with things like sensory sensitivity and restrictive or repetitive behaviors.

However, it is not just one disorder – it’s an umbrella term for several different conditions, which is why it’s called a “spectrum.” The autism spectrum includes conditions like Asperger’s Syndrome and Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS), which are both considered “high functioning” autism disorders.

The Treatment Options Are Limited

Unfortunately, there is no cure for ASD. One common treatment option is behavioral therapy, which can help people with ASD learn how to communicate better and interact more effectively with the world around them. If interested, you can read more about ABA behavioral therapy and its benefits and limitations.

Alongside behavioral therapy, which focuses on enhancing communication and social skills, other treatment options include speech therapy, occupational therapy, and educational interventions tailored to the individual’s needs.  Individualized educational programs can also play a crucial role in accommodating the unique learning styles of individuals with ASD.

In addition to structured therapies, incorporating activities for kids with autism into daily routines is essential for fostering their development. Many children with ASD find comfort in routine and may benefit from activities that engage their interests. Sensory activities, such as tactile play or visual stimulation, can be particularly beneficial. It’s important to create an environment that accommodates their sensory preferences.

However, these are treatment options that can help people with ASD manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

ASD can also be treated with medication, although there is currently no single medication that can treat the symptoms of ASD – instead, doctors may give a person different medications to try and relieve certain symptoms or behaviors associated with ASD. For example, they might prescribe an antidepressant if a person has anxiety or depression. They might

Symptoms Can Vary Greatly

Because ASD is such a complex disorder, the symptoms can vary greatly from person to person. For example, some people with ASD may be verbal and have no trouble communicating, while others may be nonverbal and need assistance with communication.

Some people with ASD may have difficulty understanding social cues or they may seem uninterested in social interaction, while others may have trouble with fine motor skills or sensory sensitivity. There is no “typical” person with ASD – symptoms can vary widely and are often severe enough that people need some form of support to navigate the world around them.

There Is No Known Cause

Unfortunately, scientists still don’t know what causes ASD. There may be a genetic component, which means that some people are more likely to develop ASD if they have a family member with the disorder. However, there is no single cause or risk factor for ASD – it’s different for every person who has it.

Additionally, there are some myths about what causes ASD, such as the idea that it’s caused by vaccines, which is not supported by any scientific evidence. With more research and study, scientists hope to learn more about the causes of ASD so that they can develop better treatment options.

It Can Be Diagnosed at Any Age

While it’s true that children are more likely to be diagnosed with ASD, adults can also be diagnosed with it. It just depends on what symptoms someone is exhibiting and the severity of those symptoms. A diagnosis can be made as early as 18 months old, although most children are diagnosed around the age of 4.

On the other hand, some adults with ASD may not be diagnosed until they reach adulthood, which can be frustrating if they’ve been struggling with symptoms their whole life without knowing what it was.

An Early Diagnosis Is Important

If you think your child may have ASD, it’s important to get them evaluated by a doctor as soon as possible. Early intervention is key for people with ASD, as it can help them learn important skills earlier in life that will carry over into adulthood. Early intervention also gives parents a chance to work with therapists and educators to develop strategies for helping their child manage their symptoms, which can make things easier down the road.

If you think you or someone you know might have ASD, it’s important to talk to a doctor or mental health professional about it. They will be able to guide you through the diagnostic process and help you develop a treatment plan that works best for your situation. With more understanding and awareness, people with ASD can live happy and fulfilling lives – even if it’s different from what many of us consider to be “normal” or “typical.”

Research into the causes of ASD is ongoing. Seeking professional help can help you get the support you need, as well as connect with others who have experience of ASD, introducing you to a helpful and knowledgeable community. There are also causes being highlighted by ActionMatters.org to share the legal challenges that are ongoing by families experiencing ASD. By finding help in the right places, you can access a lot of valuable support from others.

ASD is a complex disorder that affects people in different ways. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to diagnosis or treatment, but early intervention is important for people with ASD. With more understanding and awareness, people with ASD can lead happy and fulfilling lives.

Remember, ASD is different for everyone – so don’t hesitate to ask for help if you or someone you know is struggling.

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