Celebrating Autism Acceptance and Embracing Neurodiversity
According to the , approximately 1 in 36 children receive diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder, and its frequency is on the rise. This is likely due to increased public awareness and better screening tools.听
鈥Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that always begins in childhood and affects many areas of a person鈥檚 functioning,鈥 says Dr. Amy Lemelman, assistant professor of psychology in clinical psychiatry at 麻豆高清 and psychologist at the NewYork-Presbyterian Center for Autism and the Developing Brain. 鈥淏ecause it鈥檚 a spectrum disorder, one area of functioning may affect one person a lot, and the effects might be the opposite for someone else.鈥听
Look below to better understand ASD and how you can support those with the condition.听
What It Looks Like听
Every person has a different experience with autism. However, the telltale signs affect a person鈥檚 social skills, communication abilities and behavior. Dr. Lemelman notes that an ASD diagnosis requires communication symptoms and other restricted, repetitive behaviors to be present, such as:听
- Avoiding or seeking specific sensory stimulation听
- Complications in developing, maintaining and understanding relationships听
- Difficulty with verbal and non-verbal communication听
- Hyper-focusing on a small number of interests听
- Inconsistent eye contact听
- Lack of interest in peers听
- Limited gestures or facial expressions听
- Repeating a gesture or behavior听
- Trouble with transitions or changes in routine听
Living on the Spectrum听
Typical life challenges are often more difficult for those on the autism spectrum. While transitioning to college or work is stressful for anyone, such transitions are particularly hard for those with ASD.听听
In adulthood, the stresses keep coming, and those with ASD must find ways to thrive in daily life. This requires creative problem-solving.听
A person with ASD may do a few things to manage everyday life, including:听
- Developing a daily routine that fits their needs听听
- Seeking a career focused on their niche interests听
- Purchasing clothing and other items that meet their tactile preferences听
Professional services can help maximize quality of life, especially when the individual with ASD has a voice.听
鈥淲hen entering college or the job market, life skills or job skills training can help,鈥 Dr. Lemelman says. 鈥淎n intervention plan should be highly individualized and, if possible, include input from the person with autism regarding goals and what鈥檚 important to them in that stage of life.鈥听
Welcoming People With ASD听
By practicing autism acceptance, you can help someone with ASD feel welcome. Here are a few ways to get started.听
- Ask questions. Never assume you know the preferences of someone with ASD. Ask how the individual wants you to engage, and let that person guide your interaction.听听
- Chill out. Give time for someone on the spectrum to answer your questions or adjust to new situations, and don鈥檛 judge them for any ASD-related behaviors.听听
- Remember the golden rule. As a guiding principle, treat someone with ASD as you want to be treated. Be patient and kind, accept the other person鈥檚 unique traits and welcome them into the fold.听
Partnering with a caring medical expert can help you navigate life鈥檚 challenges with ASD. at 麻豆高清 today.听