What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts with others, and experiences the world. It is considered a "spectrum" because the characteristics and their intensity vary widely among individuals. While some people with autism may require significant support in daily life, others can live independently and thrive with minimal adjustments.

Core Characteristics of Autism

1.    Social Communication and Interaction Challenges:

o   Difficulty understanding social cues (e.g., facial expressions, tone of voice).

o   Challenges with back-and-forth conversations or small talk.

o   A tendency to prefer structured or predictable social situations.

2.    Repetitive Behaviours and Restricted Interests:

o   Repetitive movements or speech patterns (e.g., hand-flapping, echolalia).

o   Strong, focused interests in specific topics or activities.

o   Resistance to changes in routines or environments.

3.    Sensory Differences:

o   Sensitivity or reduced sensitivity to sensory input, such as light, sound, touch, taste, or smell.

o   May find certain sensations overwhelming or comforting.

Strengths Often Associated with Autism

• Attention to detail and ability to focus deeply on areas of interest.

• Unique problem-solving approaches and creativity.

• Strong memory for facts or patterns.

Common Myths About Autism

• "People with autism lack empathy": Many autistic individuals experience deep empathy but may express it differently.

• "Autism is a disease to be cured": Autism is not a disease; it's a different way of processing the world.

Awareness, understanding, and inclusivity are key to creating environments where autistic individuals can thrive and feel valued for their unique contributions.

How do we diagnose ASD?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is typically diagnosed through a combination of developmental history, behavioral observations, and assessments conducted by professionals such as pediatricians and psychologists. Diagnosis can occur in childhood or later in life.

At Safe CDC, we follow the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), the gold standard published by the American Psychiatric Association. Our team has extensive experience in ASD assessment and management, providing high-quality, multidisciplinary evaluations in line with NICE guidelines.

Our assessment pathway takes a holistic approach, considering the child’s or young person’s general medical and neurodevelopmental profile. We also assess for differential diagnoses that may present similarly to ASD or co-exist with it, such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), learning difficulties, or disabilities.

For a tailored assessment plan that meets your child's specific needs, please contact us at gethelp@safecdc.com.

ASD Management at Safe CDC

Having Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) assessment and diagnosis is often the start of a journey for many parents to understand their child. At Safe CDC we will offer our expertise to help you on this journey. 

Our post ASD diagnosis management offer includes:

1 - MEDICAL AND NEURODEVELOPMENTAL MANAGEMENT

• ASD can be associated with other medical and neurodevelopmental difficulties that we will try to identify and support. 

• In some cases, we might recommend some medical tests if a specific medical concern arises during the assessment process.

• Many children or young persons with ASD might have sleep difficulties that need further support and in some cases medication. Our doctor can help you address such concerns.

• We can also offer further assessment for some comorbidities that can co-exist with ASD such Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and offer support and management for such condition as well.

2 - UNDERSTANDING AUTISM

• We will provide you with our "What is Autism?" guide, designed to introduce you to our understanding of autism and strategies for living with this neurodiverse profile.

• Additionally, we will share our "Safe CDC Learn More" resources, which include recommended literature and training materials on autism.

• Further individual tailored support can be accessed via specialists working with Safe CDC eg pscyhological support and school inclusion support.

3 - PSYCHOLOGICAL SUPPORT 

If you feel you need further psychological support, we can link you with clinical psychologist working with Safe CDC. Working with a psychologist can help families to:

• Explore and understand the biological, behavioural, cognitive, emotional, social and environmental factors that affect Autism. 

• Support children and young people with a diagnosis of Autism to recognise and understand their emotions in order to develop strategies and techniques to help with emotion regulation.

• Support children and young people with a diagnosis of Autism to recognise and understand how certain patterns of thinking can affect how they feel, how they interact and how they behave.

4 - SCHOOL INCLUSION SUPPORT 

Often children and young persons with ASD diagnosis might find school experience overwhelming. 

At Safe CDC we work with SEN & Inclusion Consultant specialising in supporting children and young people with Autism, ADHD, Anxiety & Social & Emotional difficulties. And has a wealth of knowledge and experience in researching and implementing autism-specific curricula. 

The SEN & Inclusion Consultant can visit the educational setting and offer support to staff and pupils in primary, secondary, and further education.

5 - FOR COMMUNICATION DIFFICULTIES

Some children, especially the young ones, might require further advice regarding support with speech and communication, they can get in touch with us and use the independent speech and language therapist working with Safe CDC.

6 - SUPPORT FOR SENSORY ISSUES

If the family requires further advice regarding sensory needs, they can get in touch with us and use the independent occupational therapist working with Safe CDC. 

For more information, feel free to contact us at gethelp@safecdc.com.