Autism Spectrum Disorder, or ASD, is a lifelong developmental disorder that affects how people interact with the world around them. About 1 in 150 Australians has ASD. Autism is not a mental health problem or an intellectual disability, although some people with ASD may also have those problems. Additionally, different people with ASD will have different experiences and challenges.
Although autism is usually diagnosed during infancy, it may not be diagnosed until later in life. A late diagnosis of autism can negatively affect an individual’s mental health, education, development and social life. Therefore, the earlier a person with autism is diagnosed, the earlier they can receive the treatment and support they need to help them develop communication, social, and life skills to function independently and have a good quality of life.
People with Autism Spectrum Disorder experience challenges in the following two areas:
Kids experiencing autism may show the following symptoms:
Autistic children may also be under or over-sensitive. They can be easily stressed or upset by specific sounds and only eat certain foods.
Autism Awareness Australia notes there are some signs commonly reported by adults before recognising they may have autism, such as:
Is it worth adding some signs in adults, such as:
Pursuing an Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosis is a significant first step to getting the support you need for a better quality of life. Diagnosis can bring a sense of confidence and relief by enabling a better understanding of yourself. Diagnosis can also allow you to access financial and practical support. For example, some people may be able to access the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). You may also qualify for mental health services funding through Medicare and support in your workplace or place of study.
If your doctor suspects you have autism, they will refer you to a psychiatrist or a psychologist to confirm the diagnosis. ASD assessment and diagnosis are best conducted by psychiatrists or psychologists with appropriate training and familiarity with autism.
The assessment process can involve the following:
Your psychiatrist or psychologist may use several standardised screening and assessment tools to supplement their clinical assessment, such as the Autism Observation Schedule 2 and the Autism Diagnostic Interview Schedule Revised. Other cognitive tests and assessments may also be administered.
A diagnosis of autism will include a classification based on the level of support you need. The latest version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5) classifies Autism Spectrum Disorder into the following levels:
People with ASD have unique experiences influenced by different factors. Therefore, treatment programs are tailored to each individual and their needs to achieve the best possible outcomes and results. Various treatment and management options are available for people diagnosed with ASD. These treatments can be broken down into different categories.
Other treatments may be available. Ensuring that the treatments you choose are evidence-based is important.
While the NDIS provides funding for people with ASD, not everyone with ASD is eligible. NDIS assesses the level of support you require to determine whether you are eligible. NDIS participants receive a personalised NDIS funding plan to help them fund the required support and services. To find out whether you’re eligible or request access phone NDIS on 1800 800 110 or visit their website https://www.ndis.gov.au
