What is Autism?

Every year when the month of April rolls around, the Autism Society works hard to gain awareness for autism. For almost 25 years, this nationwide effort has helped numerous people better understand autism as a diagnosis and ensure those who have autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are supported appropriately with the right levels of care.

According to the Centers for Disease Control in 2018, 1 in 59 children is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. In spite of all the efforts to gain recognition for ASD, many do still misunderstand this disorder. In recognition of National Autism Awareness Month, here is a look at some of the more common curiosities people have about autism.

What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

In general terms, autism spectrum disorder is a type of developmental condition that affects things like the proper development of communication and behavior skills. Things like difficulty with communicating, repetitive behaviors, and problems with social interaction are general signs of autism. Symptoms of ASD can range in severity and in type, which is why autism is deemed a spectrum disorder. Those with ASD may fall anywhere on the scale at level one, two, or three, but even those with the same level of autism can have different types of symptoms or symptoms of different severities. Individuals with level one autism may need minimal support because their symptoms are milder. Someone with level two or three autism may need more therapy and support.

What Causes Autism?

To date, researchers have not yet determined precise causes for autism. There is some research that suggests genetic and environmental influences could be at least partly responsible. What we do know as far as risk factors are concerned is that:

• ASD is more common in children who have older parents
  Those who have siblings with ASD are more 14 times more likely to develop ASD
  Children born with a really low birth rate could be more at risk
  Particular genetic conditions, such as Down syndrome and Rett syndrome, are seemingly linked to ASD

Signs of Autism for Parents

Autism typically shows up before a child is two years old, and the sooner a child with ASD gets a diagnosis and starts receiving therapy, the more likely it will be that they lead a more functional life. So as a parent, it is a good decision to educate yourself about the signs and symptoms that can sometimes be pointed out early in a child's life. Some of the common signs of autism include:

• Lack of eye contact
• Not sharing an appreciation of actions or objects with others (e.g. pointing at or showing you a favorite toy.)  
• Speech delays
• Repeating certain words or behaviors
• Sensitivity to noise, touch, light, or temperature
• Overly focusing on something like a moving object
• Verbal communication delays in social settings

Some infants and toddlers with ASD also experience sleep pattern issues and may seem more irritable or easily irritated. As a parent, it is best to discuss any suspected signs of ASD with your pediatrician who can help you monitor your child and achieve a proper diagnosis. Keep in mind also that some children with autism are incredibly gifted in things like art and creative endeavors, math, and science in spite of experiencing communication delays or other symptoms.

Resources for Autism Spectrum Disorder Education

The more you know about autism, the more love and support you can show to those in your community who either care for someone with autism or who may have autism themselves. Thanks in part to campaigns like National Autism Awareness Month, more people are gaining understanding about the disorder and getting involved in efforts to educate the public, acting as a supporting individual to advocate for autism awareness, or just being there for caregivers and those with the disorder.

To follow all the latest news and development regarding ASD, it is good to keep an eye on the Autism Society website. For information about caring for someone with autism, Autism Speaks offers an Autism Response Team (ART) who provides a full list of resources, tools, and materials to educators, parents, and caregivers. Most importantly, in celebration of Autism Awareness Month, allow your awareness to become acceptance for those who think differently, and show your support however you can.