Autism Spectrum Disorder In Teens – Challenges And How To Help

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is an arduous developmental disorder caused by distinctions in the brain. ASD forms in the preadolescence phase of a child and is often identified within nine months from birth.

Autism Spectrum Disorder evokes complications in a person’s behavior, relations, perception, and communication. The attributes of people with ASD may differ from one person to another, but their appearance from regular people is not different. 

Causes Of Autism Spectrum Disorder

The scientific cause of ASD is unidentified. However, genetics is an influential cause. Recent research indicates multiple aspects of developing ASD in a person, including genetics and environmental elements.

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Various speculated aspects of ASD in a child are;

➜ Anomaly of genetics in parents

Fragile X syndrome in parents

➜ History of viral infections in parents

➜ Exposure to excessive medicine or drugs during pregnancy

➜ Inhale of toxic substances during pregnancy

➜ Delayed pregnancy (after the middle ages)

➜ Premature childbirth or complications during birth

Signs And Symptoms Of Autism Spectrum Disorder

Symptoms of ASD evolve in different phases of life. ASD frequently leads to resistive and repetitive comportments, unseemly interactions, and communicating hardships. Children with ASD find it difficult to represent themselves and mingle with others.

Some children may exhibit indications of ASD in early babyhood. Children from nine months to 3 years of age may exhibit the following symptoms.

  • Difficulty in maintaining eye contact
  • Unresponsive when calling
  • Fewer facial presentations and emotions
  • No interest in games and activities
  • Using only hand-gestures
  • No sense of humor or sadness

Children from 3 years of age to 5 may have the following symptoms.

  • Restricted speech or unclear speech
  • Repetitive words and actions during speech
  • Customary and repeated unusual body movements
  • Unable to understand or follow instructions
  • Difficulty in learning
  • Distressed behaviour

Children above the age of 6 and teenagers may have the following symptoms.

  • Attaching to strict routines and timelines
  • Puzzling mentality
  • Nervousness over petty modifications
  • Unduly fearful or incredibly fearless
  • Overactive or absentminded
  • Eccentric eating patterns and choices
  • Irregular sleeping practices

Parents should observe and regard the child’s behavior and activity for ASD to an extent. Prevention of ASD is impossible. However, timely care and support will lower the risk of procuring a high level of ASD.

Diagnosing Autism Spectrum Disorder

There are no medical tests like blood or laboratory tests to diagnose ASD. A child’s behavior and development are the attributes of diagnostic tests.

A medical officer can assess the condition of ASD by observing multiple screenings and evaluations in a child. A team of child psychologists, pathologists, and therapists may diagnose ASD in children to determine the condition flawlessly.

Treatment For Autism Spectrum Disorder

There is no definitive treatment or treatment method for Autism Spectrum Disorder. The curing of ASD signifies reducing the symptoms in the person with the help of beneficial therapies and approaches.

These therapies and interventions cater to the distinctions in the brain and enhance behavior, perception, and communication. The treatment strategy may entangle multiple professionals and expert opinions, and the duration of treatment may differ individually.

The therapies for ASD include behavioral therapy, speech and language therapy, physical therapy, and occupational therapy.

These therapies familiarize the ability and skills to handle deficiencies of ASD and restrain the symptoms gradually. The nature of ASD in every child will be unique, and so will the treatment plan to accomplish their respective necessities. 

The treatment includes therapy for parents to comprehend and manage effective methods to respond to the behavior and temperament of the child. The mediation also includes encouraging appropriate behavior in the child and managing the stresses of raising a child with ASD.

Children may benefit from these therapies and transition assistance during their teenage. It will allow them to develop skills and techniques to lead an independent adulthood and boost their career prospects and professional abilities.

Conclusion

The behavior, relationship, perception, and communication stances may differ entirely for ASD-affected individuals. They may develop abnormal capabilities depending on their respective aptitudes.

For example, some individuals may possess advanced communication skills, though others may be silent. Some individuals may be intelligent, brilliant, intellectual, or quick learners yet cannot apply or adapt to sociable circumstances and communicate appropriately.

ASD- affected individuals may or may not face challenges in their everyday lives, while proper support and assistance will help them to lead a standard and meaningful life.

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About the Author

Nicole Carter is a dedicated and passionate nutritionist, committed to helping individuals achieve their health and wellness goals through the power of proper nutrition. With a Bachelor's degree in Nutritional Science and years of practical experience.Nicole Carter is a dedicated and passionate nutritionist, committed to helping individuals achieve their health and wellness goals through the power of proper nutrition. With a Bachelor's degree in Nutritional Science and years of practical experience

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