Autism

What Is Autism?

Autism (also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder), is a developmental disorder characterized by challenges with speech and nonverbal communication, social skills, repetitive behaviors, and the ability to relate to others. The term “spectrum” refers to the different variation in strengths and challenges possessed by different people with autism.

Typically, autism is first diagnosed during childhood. As per the CDC’s Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network, approximately 1 in 59 children has been identified with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This report also shows that ASD is 4 times more common among boys than among girls.

Note: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is an umbrella diagnosis that merges four previously distinct diagnoses, namely autistic disorder, Asperger syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder, and pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS). This was established by the American Psychiatric Association in 2013.

Characteristics of Autism Spectrum Disorders

The severity and symptoms of autism can differ from one person to another. Furthermore, symptoms can range from mild to severe and can typically change over time. Generally, the characteristics of autism spectrum disorder fall into three distinct categories:

• Difficulty relating to events, things, and people. This includes social interaction difficulties, trouble making friends, not making eye contact, and difficulty reading facial expressions.
• Communication problems. Difficulty understanding or using language. Some people with autism repeat phrases or have very limited speech. There are also some who focus their conversation and attention on select topics.
• Repetitive behaviors or body movements. This may include hand waving and flapping around and repeating phrases, words, or sounds.

Treatment

While there is no cure for autism spectrum disorder, Cufa Behavioral Health Services, Inc. believes that a combination of appropriate medications and behavioral therapies can help with related symptoms, such as focus problems, depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and seizures.