What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Autism Spectrum Disorder, or ASD, is a neurodevelopmental disorder that typically affects behavior and communication. As Autism is a spectrum disorder, signs and symptoms can range from mild to severe and can look different from person to person. How do you tell if you are undiagnosed autistic? While severe forms of autism are typically diagnosed in the first two years of a child’s life, high-functioning individuals may not receive a diagnosis till further down the line. Those with undiagnosed autism may display symptoms that affect their social interactions, the way they verbally and non-verbally communicate, and how they behave in certain situations or settings.
What are the signs of autism?
Signs of autism can emerge during early childhood. Some of the common warning signs of autism include:
- Doesn’t respond to other people
- Avoids eye contact
- Prefers to be alone
- Doesn’t play “pretend” games
- Doesn’t understand emotions, including their own and other people’s
- Has delayed or absent speech development
- Repeats words or phrases
- Has obsessive interests
- Gets upset by minor changes to routine
- Is hyper or under-responsive to sensory stimulation (lights, colors, sounds, etc.)
Autism symptoms vary significantly between individuals. You should make an appointment at Ample Grace Psychiatry if you have any concerns about your child’s behavior. When you start treatment early, you and your child receive the support you need.
Testing/Assessment
Before the appointment, you are required to finish three forms to assess your Autism score.
- Ritvo Autism Asperger Diagnostic Scale
- Camouflaging Autistic Traits Questionnaire (CAT-Q)
- Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ)
Treatment
The team at Ample Grace Psychiatry begins with a thorough evaluation and diagnostic assessment to confirm a diagnosis. The treatment is a combination of medication and behavior modification therapy often known as ABA therapy.