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Autism Spectrum Disorder

Some children with ASD show many signs, while others show only a few. These signs can change as they grow older, but the main areas of difference remain the same. About 65% of children with ASD also have an intellectual disability, while some have above-average intelligence.

Children with ASD have different needs—some need high levels of support and care throughout their lives, while others can become independent adults. Research suggests that ASD affects about 1 in 100 people and is more commonly diagnosed in boys than girls, although girls may be under-diagnosed.

Symptoms

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that starts in early childhood and lasts throughout life.

Children with ASD show differences in two main areas:

  • Social Interaction and Communication. They might find it hard to connect and communicate with others.

  • Behavior and Interests. They might have restricted, repetitive, or intense behaviors and interests.

  • Children with ASD might have trouble with the back-and-forth of conversations and understanding non-verbal cues like facial expressions and gestures.

    Communication skills can vary greatly. Some children may have little to no speech, while others may talk a lot but find it hard to communicate effectively. They might say odd or inappropriate things, talk excessively about one topic, or struggle to stay on topic.

    Some children may seem detached, but others can be very affectionate. They often appear not to listen, especially when the conversation isn’t about their favorite topic.

  • Children with ASD might have narrow or unusual interests, like knowing everything about a certain topic or wanting to watch the same show repeatedly.

    They often play in repetitive ways and may show limited imaginative play. For example, they might line up toys or focus intensely on parts.

    Some children may engage in behaviors like hand-flapping or rocking, usually when excited or agitated.

    Many have difficulty coping with change but do better when they are prepared in advance.

Causes

There is no single cause of ASD. It likely involves a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors. ASD is more common in people with intellectual disabilities and other developmental disorders.

Assessment

Assessing ASD typically involves a team of professionals, including a paediatrician or child psychiatrist, a psychologist, and a speech pathologist. Your GP might refer you to a specialist if they suspect ASD. The assessment includes discussing the child's development, strengths, and difficulties, observing their behavior, and possibly conducting tests on learning, language, and day-to-day skills.

Treatment

Research shows that early intervention focusing on changing behavior and improving skills produces the best results for children with ASD. These approaches aim to:

  • Increase desirable behaviors and decrease undesirable ones

  • Improve social skills, communication, play skills, and coping strategies

Parents and carers play a central role in the intervention. You will be involved in therapy sessions and learn ways to practice skills at home. Health professionals can also work with your child's educators to support learning and behavior at school.

Tips for Supporting Children with ASD

  • Many children with ASD have specific skills or interests. Use these to motivate and stimulate learning and communication.

  • Instead of diverting attention from their interests, use these interests to engage with your child and expand their activities.

  • Follow your child’s lead in play, make observations, and gradually introduce minor changes to expand their imagination and tolerance for change.

  • Visual schedules and reminders can help children understand routines and tasks.

  • Help your child cope with changes in routine by preparing them in advance.

  • Social activities can help children learn social skills. Look for programs designed for children with ASD or community activities like Scouts and Guides.

Seeking Help

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, it’s important to seek help. With the right treatment and support, individuals can manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives. Reach out to mental health professionals, your GP, or our organisation for more information and support. We are here to support the Tamil community in discussing mental health openly and finding the tools to help and support each other.

Remember you are not alone.

Share this resource with your friends and family and help raise awareness about mental health in the Tamil community. Together, we can create a community where everyone feels comfortable talking about mental health.