What is Autism?
It is estimated that 2% of all individuals reported having varying frequencies of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). ASD include Autistic Disorder, Asperger’s Disorder and Pervasive Developmental Disorder. Elumind’s treatment programs help individuals with ASD improve their attention and focus, social interactions, academic functioning and verbal communication skills.
On average, 1 in 68 children have Autism Spectrum Disorder, with 1 in 42 boys and 1 in 189 girls. Besides interpersonal and communication difficulties, individuals with ASD may also display particular obsessions and have extreme sensory sensitivity.
Symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism exists on a spectrum, with individuals having varying degrees of severity of the condition. The first signs and symptoms of Autism arise by age 2 or 3, but it can occur earlier in some children.
Symptoms include:
- reduced eye contact
- lack of response to their name
- lacks social communication abilities
- mood fluctuations and aggression
- repetitive speech and behavior
- sensory processing challenges (tactile, auditory, visual)
- learning difficulties
- disengagement and indifference
- zoned on (high focus) on one item for a prolonged time
- lacks interest in playing with other kids
- lack of understanding of social boundaries
Commonly, individuals with ASD may also develop ADHD and/or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.
Types of ASD Include:
- Autistic Disorder
- Asperger Disorder
- Pervasive Developmental Disorder.
What Causes Autism Spectrum Disorder?
There is no singular cause but, it has been accepted that it’s caused by a broad range of factors, including abnormalities in the brain structure or function, genetics, as well as environmental factors that can trigger ASD in developing.
How can we help?
Besides the traditional therapies, such as Applied Behavioural Analysis (ABA) and medications, Elumind offers further evidence-based and effective treatments such as balancing the brain’s nutrition through Nutrition Counselling and Functional Medicine, teaching social skills through our Life Coaching, training the brain in self-regulation through Neurofeedback, and various forms of Psychotherapy to help with emotional and psychological burdens of autism.
