Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is defined as a complex developmental condition involving persistent challenges in social interaction, speech, nonverbal communication, and restricted or repetitive behaviors. The effects of ASD and the severity of symptoms vary from person to person. According to World Health Organization estimates, 1 in every 270 people worldwide has autism, and its causes may include genetic and environmental factors.

“Autism spectrum disorder is a condition related to brain development that affects how a person perceives and communicates with others, causing problems in social interaction and communication. The disorder also includes limited and repetitive patterns of behavior. The term ‘spectrum’ in autism spectrum disorder refers to a wide range of symptoms and levels of severity.” — Mayo Clinic.

What are the symptoms of autism spectrum disorder?

Autism spectrum disorder emerges during childhood, and signs may appear in the second year. The most important symptoms include:

  • Inability to make eye contact.
  • Not responding when the child is called.
  • Isolation.
  • Delayed acquisition of language skills.
  • Lack of interest in others, such as the mother and father.
  • Some repetitive, stereotyped behaviors.
  • Some self-directed aggressive behaviors.

When should I see a doctor?

Signs of autism spectrum disorder often appear early in development, when there are clear delays in language skills and social interactions. According to Mayo Clinic, you should consider seeing a doctor if your child:

  • Does not respond with a smile or happy expression by 6 months.
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  • Does not imitate sounds or facial expressions by 9 months.
  • Does not babble or coo by 12 months.
  • Does not use gestures, such as pointing or waving, by 14 months.
  • Does not say individual words by 16 months.
  • Does not play make-believe or pretend by 18 months.
  • Does not say two-word phrases by 24 months.
  • Loses language or social skills at any age.

How can we support a family that has a child with autism?

Acceptance and inclusion

Accepting and including a family with a child who has autism is important. Invite the parents and their children to activities and encourage them to participate. No one should invite children with autism to parties merely because they want to be seen as “brave” or “inspiring.” People with autism are not charitable causes or objects, and they do not like to be made to feel that way. Instead, communicate honestly and sincerely with them and their parents. Teach children to understand the issues their peers face. If parents are able to practice inclusion, their children are also more likely to be inclusive toward friends with autism.

Do not judge them

Being a parent is difficult enough, and being the parent of a child with autism is even harder. Do not judge parents for any perceived lack of control over their children or for how they choose to raise a child with autism. They are probably struggling and may be as frustrated as the observer. It is also important not to label children with autism as “stupid,” because they are not. There are certain tasks at which children with autism excel, such as solving complex problems, recognizing patterns, and finding irregularities, among other tasks.

Try to understand what autism is:

The most important step in supporting parents of children with autism is learning about and understanding autism. Autism manifests in different ways. For example, Asperger syndrome is a form of high-functioning autism.

Obtain all information about autism from reliable sources, including scientific journals, major newspapers, and autism advocacy groups.

Maintain confidentiality:

Parents may sometimes choose to confide in people they consider close friends. However, this does not give anyone permission to spread private information about a parent's struggles with their child with autism. Parents of children with autism can be supported by keeping everything they say confidential unless they state otherwise. In some cases, breaching confidentiality may be not only rude but also harmful. It could include lost opportunities because private medical information was disclosed. Respect the right of both the parents and the child to privacy.

Advocacy:

Parents and children affected by autism face considerable stigma in daily life. Legislation does not always protect them or their rights. Others can offer support by advocating for the rights of people with autism in different ways, whether politically or simply in daily life when discrimination occurs. Help parents by speaking on their behalf and on behalf of their children. It is a gesture they will not soon forget.

In conclusion, early diagnosis is very important for working with the child and giving them the necessary skills. Having a child with autism spectrum disorder in the family does not mean isolation and withdrawal; it means work and support.

To learn more about autism spectrum disorder, download the mental health app from Tatmeen on Google Play and the Apple App Store, and register on the Tatmeen website to access valuable information and practical tools for strengthening your mental health.