Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects communication, social interaction and behaviour. The condition is characterized by restricted and repetitive actions, challenge with social skills, nonverbal communication and interests.
According to WHO, in India, it is estimated that around 1 in 100 children are affected by autism, with a higher prevalence in boys than girls. Although the extent of the condition might vary in different individuals and can evolve over time, depending on the specific condition. While some people with Autism can live independently, others have severe disabilities that require them to have constant care and support for their entire life.
Early intervention and support are pivotal for children with autism and their families, and there are several resources available in India to help families navigate the challenges of raising a child with autism.
Autism affects people from all walks of life, and India is no exception. In this article, we will explore autism from an Indian perspective and provide insights into the condition.
What is Autism?
Autism is a spectrum disorder, which means that it affects people differently and to varying degrees. Some children with autism may have mild symptoms, while others may have more severe symptoms.
There are many subtypes of Autism, most of which are influenced by genetic and environmental factors. While there is a peculiar set of symptoms for every kind of Autism, almost all of them are accompanied by multiple sensory sensitivities and medical issues, including Gastrointestinal disorders, seizures, sleep disorders and mental health challenges such as Anxiety, Depression & attention issues.
The M-CHAT (Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers) can help you determine if a professional should evaluate your child. Social signs:
• May not keep eye contact or make little or no eye contact
• Shows no or less response to a parent’s smile or other facial expressions
• May not look at objects a parent is looking at or pointing to
• May not point to objects
• May not have appropriate facial expressions
• Has difficulty perceiving what others might be thinking or feeling by looking at their facial expressions
• Less likely to show concern (empathy) for others
• Has difficulty making and keeping friends.
Symptoms of Autism are generally visible when a child turns two or three.
Other common symptoms of autism include:
• Difficulty with social interaction and communication
• Repetitive behaviours or routines
• Sensory sensitivities, such as being hypersensitive to light, sound, or touch
• Difficulty with motor coordination and movement
Diagnosis is based on a combination of behavioural observations, interviews with parents and caregivers, and standardized assessments. Autism is usually diagnosed in early childhood, although some children may not receive a diagnosis until later in life.
Early Intervention for Children with Autism
Early intervention is critical for children with autism because it can help them develop skills that will be important throughout their lives. Early intervention programs are designed to help children with autism develop social, communication, cognitive and behavioural skills, which are essential for their overall development and well-being.
In India, there are several early intervention programs available for children with autism, including:
• Applied Behavioural Analysis (ABA)
• Speech and language therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Special education programs
• Parent training and education
Early intervention programs should be tailored to the individual needs of each child, and parents and caregivers should work closely with healthcare professionals to develop a program that is appropriate for their child.
Support for Families of Children with Autism
Families of children with autism in India often face numerous challenges, including financial strain, social isolation and a lack of support. It is essential for families to know that they are not alone and that there are resources available to help them.
One of the most cardinal resources for families of children with autism is education and support. There are many organizations in India that provide information and resources for families, including support groups, educational workshops, and online resources.
Another predominant resource for families is financial support. Children with autism often require expensive therapies and interventions and many families grapple to pay for these services. There are government programs and private organizations in India that provide financial assistance for families of children with autism.
Challenges and Opportunities in India
India is a diverse country with a broad range of cultures and languages. This can make it strenuous for families of children with autism to access services and support, especially in rural areas where resources may be limited. There is also a lack of awareness about autism in some parts of the country, which can lead to stigma and discrimination against children with autism and their families.
One of the colossal drawbacks in understanding autism in India is the lack of standardized diagnosis and assessment procedures. There are no established guidelines or protocols to diagnose autism in India, which often leads to misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis. Moreover, the diagnostic criteria for autism are based on western culture, which may not always be relevant to the Indian context.
Despite these challenges, there are also opportunities for progress in India. There is a growing awareness of autism in the country and more resources are becoming available for families of children with autism. There are also several organizations and advocacy groups in India that are working to raise awareness about autism and improve access to services and support.
Conclusion
Autism is a complex developmental disorder that affects many children and families in India.
Although, there is no cure for autism, however with appropriate treatment and remedial education many children with autism can learn, grow well and become independent as adult.
It is important that parents and professionals work together for the child's benefit. Once a treatment program is in place, communication between parents and professionals is essential to monitor the child's progress.
People with Autism have every right to receive the patience, understanding and support from their own family, the healthcare sector and the society at large. Remember, the best way to help autistic individuals is by recognizing them and their condition, and learning more about the situation so that discrimination & biases can be reduced. If you feel that anyone in your family is showing signs of Autism, they must reach out to a doctor at the earliest because early diagnosis can help the person live and adapt to the condition better.
With the right interventions and support, children with autism can thrive and lead fulfilling lives in India. By working together, we can create a more inclusive and supportive society for individuals with autism in India.