Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person connects, interacts socially, and perceives the world around them. Although it shows differently in each individual, there are certain popular, observable symptoms that can help spot it from childhood.
What is ASD?
ASD is not a disease, but rather a neurological condition that affects individuals throughout their lives. There is no cure, but with early detection and appropriate support, those with it can solve full, independent, and happy lives.
It happens in different degrees (mild, moderate or severe), which is why it is called “spectrum”.
Main Symptoms of Autism (ASD)
1. 🗣️ Communication problems
People with autism may have difficulty showing themselves verbally, keeping a fluid conversation, or understanding social norms of language, such as gestures, tone of voice, or sarcasm.
2. 🔁 Repetitive behaviors
They may enduring repeat movements (such as hand flapping ), words, or actions. These routines offer them with security and structure.
3. 🙈 Avoid eye contact
They avoid eye contact during conversation, which is often one of the first signs parents or caregivers notice.
4. 🎯 Restricted interests
They center intensely on a specific topic or activity. For example, learning all about trains, cars, dates, dinosaurs, or repeating the same song over and over again.
Other common symptoms of ASD (not included in the image)
- Hyper or hyposensitivity to sounds, lights, textures or tastes.
- Difficulty adapting to changes or unforeseen events.
- Little facial or emotional expression .
- Difficulty playing symbolically (e.g., pretending a box is a car).
- Preference for being alone.
- Difficulty understanding other people’s emotions (cognitive empathy).
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosing ASD demands a multidisciplinary evaluation:
🔹 Clinical interviews
🔹 Behavioral observation
🔹 Language and communication development tests
🔹 Evaluation by child psychologists or neurologists
It can be done from 18 months, and the earlier it is detected, the better the intervention tools will be .
Support and treatment
Although there is no cure, early intervention with speech, occupational, sensory, and emotional encourage therapies can make a huge difference in the quality of life for people with ASD.
Some forms of support:
- Prepare clear routines
- ABA Therapy (Applied Behavior Analysis)
- Adapted special education
- Emotional encourage for the family
- Boosting inclusive environments in schools and communities
Conclusion
Autism is not a tragedy. The real tragedy is not spotting it early, not providing support, and not understanding neurological diversity.
