Autism
Our Brains are as Unique as Our Fingerprints
Autism and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
ASD affects attention. Attention is a process that the brain applies to the outside world via our senses that work with the executive functions of the brain to create a constant feed of information, referred to as perception. Perception allows us to interact with the world in real time and may in turn be used by the brain to create memories. Almost every part of the brain will contribute in some way to this sequence of attention, perception and memory creation.
The term Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) covers autism, Asperger’s syndrome, Rett syndrome, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder, Kanner’s syndrome and other undefined but similarly presenting disorders that are collectively called Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS).
Autism Spectrum Disorder is present from birth
ASD is usually apparent by the age of three and persists throughout life. The good news is that treatment makes a difference, particularly when it is started early. Our practioners and treatments concentrate on reducing the symptoms that interfere with quality of life. We understand parents who are cautious and have reservations. Custom-tailored holistic plans that focus on individual needs are offered, and address both physical and mental health, which are considered to be the most effective methods worldwide.
Autism and Autism Spectrum Disorder /ASD
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) (previously referred to as Aspergers syndrome) has a wide breadth of medical disorders that may present with significant cognitive impairment. But it can also present without significant medical disorders or perceivable cognitive impairment, in fact, there can be beautiful creativeness and even genius associated with ASD (Tim Burton, anyone?)
ASD affects attention. Attention is a process that the brain applies to the outside world via our senses that work with the executive functions of the brain to create a constant feed of information, referred to as perception. Perception allows us to interact with the world in real time and may in turn be used by the brain to create memories. Almost every part of the brain will contribute in some way to this sequence of attention, perception and memory creation.
The causes of ASD are not well understood. For many, there may be a genetic component.Other causes are simply unknown. It’s likely that a number of different factors interact to influence the way the brain develops. What we do know is that people with ASD, the components and sequencing of attention and perception are different to those experienced by nuero-typical people.
People with ASD share a particular set of characteristics- but you don’t need to have all of these characteristics to be have ASD:
- Excessively sustained and focused attention
- A dependence on the visual as opposed to the use of all the senses
- Emotions in sync with sensory reality more than with a social setting
- An inability to “multitask” or spread awareness
- Poor motor coordination and repetitive behaviour
- Missing or reduced ability to “tune out” or mentally step away.
What this means is that individuals with ASD behave, communicate and interact with the world in ways that can be seen as different from the majority of people (called neuronormative). But also in ways that are different to each other. A diagnosis of ASD may mean very dissimilar things in different people. Some can communicate easily, others are nonverbal. Some require ongoing assistance while others happily live without the need for support.
ASD is present from birth, is usually apparent by the age of three and persists throughout life. The good news is that treatment makes a difference, particularly when treatment is started early and when it concentrates on reducing the symptoms that interfere with quality of life. Sometimes just knowing or understanding there is a named difference can be quite liberating for nuerodiverse.
Holistic treatment plans that are tailored to the individual’s needs and address both physical and mental health are considered to be the most effective.
ASD affects each person differently. People with ASD have unique strengths and challenges, and their treatment programs must by tailored to reflect this. The symptoms and therefore the challenges of ASD will also change with age. With early intervention, children with some forms of ASD can show excellent progress, even catching up to their peers developmentally. Support for family members is also vital. Misconceptions about autism, how it comes about and how it should be treated abound, and can be simply overwhelming.
When ASD and ADHD Occur Together
According to the scientific literature, 50 to 70% of individuals with ASD also have ADHD. However, ASD and ADHD are different entities that affect individuals in distinct ways, and these statistics are now being revised, particularly given that the treatment for one condition may not be optimal for the treatment of the other. A complicating factor is that autistic symptoms are rarely seen in ADHD; however, there are specific ADHD symptoms that are quite common in cases of ASD.
Timely, accurate and compassionate diagnosis is the key to treating ASD or ADHD, with the understanding that every individual and every situation is unique. It is also important to work with psychologists who specialise in neurodiversity and neurodiverse disorders.
Our Clinical Psychologists Specialise In Neurodiversity, ADHD And ASD
A child with ADHD will most likely grow out of the condition as they approach adulthood, or with the assistance of therapy, develop the emotional range to manage the condition themselves. Medication is also very effective. The key to treatment is to ensure that their developmental years are not adversely affected by the condition, and that disruption to others around them is minimised.
Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
In terms of classification, all forms of Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) are now called Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD.