Autism: Symptoms, challenges, myths and tips to create a strong support system

A diverse group of conditions related to development of the brain are referred to as autism spectrum disorder which are characterised by some degree of difficulty with social interaction and communication, atypical patterns of activities and behaviours such as difficulty with transition from one activity to another, a focus on details and unusual reactions to sensations and may be detected in early childhood but is often not diagnosed until much later. According to the World Health Organization, “People with autism often have co-occurring conditions, including epilepsy, depression, anxiety and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder as well as challenging behaviours such as difficulty sleeping and self-injury. The level of intellectual functioning among autistic people varies widely, extending from profound impairment to superior levels.” Autism: Symptoms, challenges, myths and tips to create a strong support system In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Milan Balakrishnan, Consultant Psychiatrist at Mumbai's Masina Hospital, shared, “We are seeing more and more cases being diagnosed earlier with better awareness, autism is associated with episodes of aggression and emotional outbursts. No friends mean more difficulty in improving social interaction.” Symptoms: Dr Milan Balakrishnan revealed, “The core symptoms of autism are: social communication problems and restricted, repetitive behaviours. If Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is present with autism, it may need medical treatment.” Tips to create a strong support system: Dr Gunjan Bharadwaj asserted, “Taking care of an autistic child can put the parents and family under a lot of stress.