Living with autism: Navigating daily challenges, communication, and mental well-being

In this neurodiverse world, there is no correct way to think, learn, or behave; these differences may or may not lead to deficits. A collection of such or similar symptoms that cause social communication difficulty in association with fixations, restrictions, difficulties in accepting change and some sensory disturbances can be an individual with autism spectrum disorder. An individual with autism can also have certain associated challenges like hyperactivity, behavioural concerns, sleep disturbances, epilepsy, gastrointestinal disturbances, anxiety disorder, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder etc, which can add to the challenges. Providing alternative communication methods, such as sign language, visual aids, or apps designed for augmentative and alternative communication, to individuals with difficulty in communication and lastly providing the right accommodations in the form of a buddy, providing a scribe at school, allowing them to write exams in a distraction-free environment or shadow support in case of serious impairment and difficulties can help them navigate through their challenges and learn. Reaching out to trained professionals like Developmental paediatricians, psychologists, neurologists, educators, occupational therapists, speech therapists and most importantly, parents and family make a multidisciplinary team who can support these individuals from time to time in assisting them overcome their challenges and lead a more productive life.