Various types of treatments are used to help autistic children, including physical and occupational therapy. Occupational therapy helps children learn to interact with others and to take part in physical games. ABA, or Applied Behavior Analysis, is a treatment that focuses on teaching behavior and skills that will help a child function in a typical school or work environment. Psychiatrists are also used to help high-functioning autistic children cope with everyday life.
Evidence-based treatments
Evidence-based treatments for autism aim to address specific needs of children with autism. Some of these therapies are delivered in a classroom setting and are based on the TEACCH approach. This approach uses visuals and consistency to teach children with autism the basics of daily living. It is often used in conjunction with other therapies such as physical therapy. Other types of therapy are social-relational and focus on improving social skills and emotional bonds.
Evidence-based treatments for autism are increasingly available. Early diagnosis and intervention can make a huge difference in the symptoms and skills of a child. However, autism symptoms often overlap with those of other disorders, making it important to tailor a treatment plan to the needs of the child.
Art therapies
Art therapy is an important tool in treating children with autism. It helps them develop a greater tolerance for different types of stimuli and to channel self-stimulating behaviors into creative play. Because art is something that almost all children enjoy, it is not surprising that children with autism are often highly receptive to this form of therapy. Using art can help children learn to tolerate different textures, smells, and materials, which may otherwise cause distress. It also helps children develop greater patience and self-reliance.
An art therapist will help children create works of art using paints, markers, clay, and construction paper. The therapist will guide the child’s progress and record the results. The therapist may ask the child to share memories associated with the art pieces. Younger children, however, may not be able to participate in the process.
Occupational therapy
Occupational therapy can help people with autism develop motor and social skills, as well as cope with sensory input. It can also help people make life transitions. Occupational therapy services are provided by an occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant, who has a bachelor’s or associate’s degree. The occupational therapist will work directly with the person with autism to practice skills and work towards goals written by the OT. Occupational therapy services are often included in an Individualized Education Program (IEP) and are provided at no cost to the family.
Occupational therapy can help children with autism develop motor skills. It can also help them manage sensory input, such as background noises, and increase concentration. Children with autism frequently report difficulty concentrating in school. They need to manage sensory input, filter out background noises, and ignore distractions in order to pay attention. With occupational therapy, children with autism can learn to deal with these problems and focus better in the classroom.
Antidepressants
Using antidepressants as a treatment for autism has a limited research base. While they are generally safe and effective, they can have side effects. People with autism may experience sleep problems or irritability when taking antidepressants. Some adults with ASD also experience withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking their medications for an extended period.
There are no definitive studies demonstrating the link between depression and autism, but they show that some antidepressants can increase the risk of autism. However, the association between these two conditions may be genetic or non-genetic. It is important to note that these associations are based on observation and not a causal link.
Antidepressants are commonly used to treat depression, anxiety, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. They work by affecting the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that sends messages between nerve cells. Serotonin levels affect mood, sleep, social interactions, and obsessive-compulsive behaviors. Although the research is limited, it is possible that antidepressants can help people with autism who have repetitive behaviors.
Stimulants
Stimulants are an effective treatment for children with autism, but they do not change the core characteristics of the disorder. However, they can improve social skills and behavior and may even reduce impulsivity in children with autism. Parents should work with their child’s doctor to find the most effective medication. Various types of stimulants are available, including those approved by the FDA. They may improve attention, memory, self-control, motor skills, and decrease impulsivity.
In addition to being used as a treatment for children with ASD, these medications may also help people with co-occurring conditions. For example, these drugs can help people with autism with problems with high energy levels, inability to concentrate, and self-harming behaviors. Many people with autism take them to treat other comorbid mental or medical conditions.