DIAGNOSING AUTISM

Happy New year, guys!

Last year, I was really consistent about posting on this blog. Unfortunately, I cannot be posting bi-weekly because your girl is an adult and she cannot handle so much. Although, I will be using my Instagram account for more content.

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So, as this is the first blogpost of the year. I decided to start on a light note, talking about the Diagnosis of Autism.

As you know Autism is a spectrum and it presents itself differently in people. Not everyone experiences the same symptoms.

If your child or sibling has been showing signs that he/she might be autistic, the right thing to do is to go to a doctor.

The good news is that there are experienced specialists that can help to get a proper diagnosis. Doctors and Behavioural Specialists can look at your child's developmental history and behavior and then make decisions from there.

ASD is usually detected at 18 months or younger. Early signs of ASD include avoiding eye contact, delayed speech and limited display of language. However, it has been confirmed that some people don't receive a diagnosis until they are much older. Some individuals are not diagnosed until they are adolescents, but it doesn’t mean that they won’t get the right assistance and support they need.

Note that Individuals with ASD may also have other challenges and conditions such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).

Developmental monitoring should be considered for all children; It observes your child’s growth and also confirms if your child meets the developmental milestones in specific areas- growing, playing, communicating, learning and much more.

Early diagnosis is very important because the skills needed for them to reach their full potential are taught early. Once diagnosed, know that individuals with autism won't feel alone in their journey and it also increases self-awareness.

Although, I won't consider a self-diagnosis because it can lead to an inaccurate conclusion.

Read this for more. Why Self-Diagnosis of Autism Can Be a Problem (elemy.com)

Guys, it's a new year; let's be intentional about creating awareness and dispelling many stereotypes!

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