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What do you really know about autism?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a behavioural and cognitive disability that affects the social skills and actions of an individual which develops at an early age and can continue till adulthood

Autism is a disorder that is caused by factors related to genetics or the environment the child was born into and can be identified during early childhood. However, signs and symptoms of autism is not always identified at an early age, therefore careful observation of the child's development is required in order to provide an earlier treatment for better results.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), it is estimated that 1 in 160 children worldwide are diagnosed with ASD. Although some who are diagnosed with autism can live independently with the right care, there are those with serious disabilities who will require lifelong support and medical care. If any signs of autism are identified, it is important to consult a doctor as soon as possible.
How do you identify someone with ASD?
People who are born with ASD are usually faced with challenges in communicating and interacting with other people. Below is a list of some of the common signs and symptoms of ASD:

• Shows difficulty in communicating and socialising
• Loss of language and verbal skills
• Prefers social isolation
• Shows a constant repetitive behaviour or action (swaying, waving hands, rocking back and forth)
• Sensitive to light, sound or touch
• Shows very limited interest in activities

What happens next?
It is never easy for a family to receive news that their child is diagnosed with autism. In cases when you do identify signs of ASD, it is vital to do an early treatment from a hospital or consider sending your child in a specialised institution that provides training in speech therapy, behaviour and communication. Additionally, raising awareness about ASD can also encourage investment for better healthcare, public facilities and better treatment for those diagnosed with autism.
How do you approach someone with autism?
Unfortunately, individuals with ASD are often treated unfairly, discriminated and misunderstood in certain places. When approaching someone with autism, it is important to consider the following:

• Talk slowly and say less when speaking to them, try not to overload them with too much information that they cannot handle. Give them time to process the information. Additionally, try to keep questions direct and straight to the point.
• Avoid using sarcasm, irony, figurative language and exaggeration since this may complicate things for them or cause them to misunderstand. Keep things simple.
• Be patient with them. In most cases, patience is required when dealing with people with ASD, but it is important to be understanding and considerate of their situation because their own way of processing social situations can be different.

Micah Aguilar is an editorial intern with Khaleej Times.

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