Day 1: Introduction to Autism
Jul 20, 2024
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Nigeria
Joined Oct 19, 2023
Photo Credit: Holisticflo
Day 1: Introduction to Autism
Hello Holisticflo Health lovers,Welcome to our new series, we will be exploring the complexities and nuances of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Over the next few weeks, we'll dive deep into understanding this neurological condition - from its core characteristics and causes, to effective approaches for early detection, management, and support.
What exactly is autism?
Autism spectrum disorder is a lifelong neurological condition that affects how a person communicates with and relates to other people. It's called a "spectrum" disorder because the symptoms and their severity can vary greatly from person to person.
At its core, autism is characterised by difficulties in social interaction and communication, as well as the presence of restricted, repetitive behaviours and interests. These core symptoms typically emerge in early childhood and can impact an individual's ability to function in school, work, and everyday life.
It's important to understand that autism is not a mental illness or intellectual disability. In fact, people with autism often have average or above-average intelligence. The challenges they face are primarily related to processing sensory information, regulating emotions, and navigating the social world.
Autism is also considered a spectrum because the severity of symptoms can range from mild to severe. Some individuals may be able to live independently with minimal support, while others require around-the-clock care and assistance.
Prevalence-wise, autism is one of the fastest-growing developmental disorders, with an estimated 1 in 44 children in the United States being diagnosed. It's a global phenomenon, with similar rates reported in many countries around the world.
So in summary, autism spectrum disorder is a complex neurological condition that significantly impacts a person's ability to communicate, interact socially, and process sensory information. The spectrum is wide, and each individual with autism has their own unique strengths, challenges, and support needs.
On Monday, we'll dive deeper into understanding the potential causes and risk factors associated with autism. Stay tuned!
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