AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER
WHAT IS ASD?
ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) is a neurobiological developmental disorder that affects individuals in different ways.
There are different characteristics and levels of support needed depending on the degree of severity. This is why autism is placed under a larger category or umbrella on a ‘spectrum’
WHAT CAUSES ASD?
The etiology is complex and can involve multiple causes. Most cases are caused by genetics, are hereditary or by environmental factors. It runs in families or is likely due to neurologically compromising events such as infections, medications or toxins (mercury, lead) that can affect ongoing brain development.
WHAT IS INVOLVED WITH ASD?
There are three levels of autism that are used for diagnostic criteria which basically fall into two categories. Social communication i.e. how a person interacts and relates to the world around them. Behaviours that are restricted or repetitive i.e. stimming, obsession, rigidity and sensory issues. These are all used to determine the type of autism support that is needed (remember it is on a spectrum). Some people may have great conversations, but don’t know how to reciprocate, read social cues or have emotional outbursts. Their challenges are quite different from another person who may show extreme rocking back and forth or stimming (repetitive) behaviours, a lot of anxiety for new people or places, may have co-existing OCD or ADHD.
WHAT ARE THE THREE LEVELS?
According to the DSM-5, the three levels determine what kind of support is needed and depends on which symptoms stand out the most.
Level 1 Requiring support (also called Mild) – the person basically can take care of themselves, have some difficulties with communication, sensory processing issues and executive functioning. They have relatively good self-awareness, can live independently with minimal support and guidance.
Level 2 Requiring substantial support (Moderate) – the person has greater social communication impairment to now include language skills, conversational ability, strong emotional reactions especially to changes, self-care and daily activities, sensory processing reactions are more noticeable. They cannot live independently due to concerns around safety, finances, meals, etc. and need a special school, work program, supervised housing and appropriate behaviour or communication therapy.
Level 3 Requiring very substantial support (Severe) – the person has severe challenges and major impairments in most areas of their life. They are typically unable to reciprocate conversations with mostly non-verbal or very limited expressions and social interaction, prefer solitary activities with basically no play skills, (stimming) behaviours and mannerisms are pronounced, major sensory processing and emotional challenges and intellectual disability. The person needs full-time supervision and assistance i.e. residential centers with specialized support.
People with autism are incredible and unique human beings who live their best possible life. A diagnosis can be helpful at any stage, but don’t let it define you. In the end, it is important to know that it is not about assigning labels but to determine the level of support, growth, development and funding that are needed.
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