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SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES WITH AUTISM

Mon, 18 Jul 2011 18:53:17 +0100

Raising children is a strain on most parents as each family copes with their responsibilities based on their experience, knowledge and ability to cope. As the saying goes “the stresses and joys of parenthood”. Parents learn to understand the personalities of each child and their children learn to recognise the personalities of their parents and other family members.

Coping in an environment which clearly lacks the acceptance of Autism, a lack of social support and dealing with an Autistic child’s antisocial behaviour are a few of the challenges that parents are faced with. In addition it has been noted that an Autistic child manifests existing problems within a family or for others creates new areas of conflict.

When living with an Autistic child the stresses are so much greater than in a non-Autistic household, as the Autistic child has problems in not only relating to other people but recognising that others have needs too. Some of the challenges in living with Autism could be sleep disorders, a lack of understanding in relating to others, barriers in communication, a lack of ability to care for themselves, and food and sensory intolerances. As a result Autism impacts on the lives of the rest of the family.

The lack of ability to communicate while making sense of the world is the greatest barrier to an individual with Autism. Events which most people accept as normal everyday situations could cause a great deal of anxiety or fear to an Autistic child.

Most individuals with Autism have added learning disabilities and some suffer from Epilepsy. The added difficulties add more pressure on families coping with the disability. The difficulties outlined, not only cause an enormous strain on the family, but also leave them feeling isolated. Some express sadness, anger and resentment. Some parents find it too much to cope with the added pressure resulting in the break-up of marriages. Some find it difficult to cope emotionally and mentally and often suffer depression. The stresses have been brought to public attention as a result of some high profile incidents that have been reported in the past years, such as murder/suicide of Autistic children and their prime carers. All families require as much support and guidance to deal with their unexpected challenges and enable them to lead happier lives.

It has been reported that the divorce rate in families with an Autistic child is around 80%. Dealing with the stress of the diagnosis, behavioural issues, lack of trained staff, lack of support from services, social issues, financial stress to provide adequate long term support are but a few of the factors that add to the stress of any marriage.

In families with an Autistic child, it tends to be the case that one parent stays remote from the situation and the other gets over involved, typically the dad focuses on his work and the mum focuses on the needs of the Autistic child. This doesn’t leave any room for shared interests which leaves the couple moving in separate directions. Therefore, keeping the lines of communication open means that you can do more to help your child. It is most desirable that parents share the responsibility 50-50, but the chances of this happening are remote. For the sake of the family and the partnership the parent who is most involved needs to have scheduled breaks in order to cope effectively. Some parents run away from their responsibilities, their marriage and even their Autistic child.

Look at respite services available and if you have the finances available you can hire trained people to provide the care that your child needs. Avoiding burnout is an essential part of being a good parent for an Autistic child and shows that you are in control and have effective coping strategies in place.

Mothers of Autistic children are said to suffer a great deal of emotional trauma, as they often hold themselves responsible for their child’s behaviour. Fathers of Autistic children are less affected as they tend to suppress their feelings, whereas mothers vent their feelings by going through a range of grieving processes.

I believe that Autism is a strength. Taking note of the neurotypically wired majority of the human race, how many would be able to comprehend living in an Autistic world? The Autistic child did not ask to be Autistic. It is confusing, it is bizarre, it is scary, and it is lonely just to outline a few scenarios in the mind of an Autistic person. They need the support of all humankind to learn to understand them. Like all people, Autistic individuals also have their own limitations but they most certainly have their own strengths. Given the best chance to realise their potential they are capable of being the best they can.

“Living with Autism is a challenge to most families, but living in our world is a greater challenge to an individual with Autism. Help them in their journey through life.”

Award winning author of "No Matter What" (Autism)
(Psychology / Mental health - Parenting / Family - Health general )
http://www.amazon.co.uk/No-Matter-What-Sandy-Howarth/dp/1847477496

SENSORY INTEGRATION THERAPY

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 19:09:53 +0100

A treatment which assists a person with Autism to improve the way in which their nervous system receives sensory input. It is usually carried out by an Occupational Therapist. Autistic children require this method of therapy as they could be over sensitive to touch, sound and light, hyper active, clumsy with movements, unable to control self or calm self and show signs of speech delay. The typically developing brain integrates the sensors automatically. The Autistic brain requires a great deal of input in achieving the integration of the sensors, where the accuracy cannot be guaranteed. The process which is distorted results in learning and development being delayed. Sensory integration helps a child by training all the sensors to coordinate and work together. Each of our sensors teaches us different information about ourselves and the world. It is often confusing or difficult for an Autistic child to process all the information at the same time. The coordination of the sensors are balanced in a way to help the Autistic child process information about who they are, the world around them and what takes place in that world.

Who would benefit from sensory integration therapy?

A child who has difficulty gripping and using a pencil

A child who has difficulty engaging in appropriate play using toys

Has difficulty with coordination to dress one's self and general self care tasks

Has difficulty coping with movement making everyday fun and playground activities a fear

Hyperactive or over active children who are seen as a danger to themselves

Tactile defensive children

Developing attention span
A child who continuously fidgets while not paying attention to what he/she is doing will not be able to learn effectively. An OT will look at what motivates your child to sit still and will help the child keep calm and ready to learn.

Developing Sensory processing skills
A child needs to pick up information from all the senses and use them in an effective manner. The senses together with body movement and awareness are registered by sensory receptors, processed in the brain and acted upon in a way that the child functions in the most efficient way.

Fine and Gross motor skills
Many children with Autism display difficulty in learning skills such as drawing, using scissors, buttoning clothes or stringing beads. Autistic children will need help in developing the strength of the small muscles in their hands in order to help with the dexterity and co-ordination which are required for developing many life skills. Working on gross motor skills helps develop strength and awareness of the larger muscles: these skills could involve throwing and catching a ball, hopping, kicking a ball, jumping and climbing.

Activities involving daily living
Children are confronted with many daily living tasks which include eating, using utensils, drinking from a cup, dressing and undressing, washing hands, having a bath or shower, using the toilet and general personal hygiene.

Developing Sensory processing skills
A child needs to pick up information from all the senses and use them in an effective manner. The senses together with body movement and awareness are registered by sensory receptors, processed in the brain and acted upon in a way that the child functions in the most efficient way.

Award winning author of "No Matter What" (Autism)
(Psychology / Mental health - Parenting / Family - Health general )
http://www.amazon.co.uk/No-Matter-What-Sandy-Howarth/dp/1847477496

TREATMENTS FOR AUTISM

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 19:04:28 +0100

Choosing a suitable educational environment

Parents want what’s best for their children and struggle to give them the best. Whether it is in a mainstream environment, special needs school, or a home based programme the decision should be based on what is most suited to meet your child’s individual needs. The choice should be made based on the child’s ability, which should be determined according to the age and level of development. Needs may vary depending on mobility, co-ordination, language development and the ability to cope in a chosen environment.

Every Autistic child is an individual. Therefore, it is absolutely essential that their individual needs are met. Learn the value of unfolding your child’s true potential by addressing the individual needs, once a diagnosis has been made. In addition learn to understand your child and his/her needs, when choosing a suitable educational environment. This means that your child should not be positioned in an educational establishment that cannot cater to his/her needs, rather that the educational environment is tailored to fit the individual educational needs of the child.

Methods used in teaching Autistic children

LOVAAS
ABA
PECS
TEACCH
Speech Therapy
Sign Language / Makaton
Occupational Therapy
Sensory Integration Therapy
Play Therapy
Holding Therapy
Dolphin Therapy
Option Therapy
Facilitated Communication
Physical Therapy
Computer Software
Vision Training
Irlene Lenses
Relationship Development Intervention
Social Skills Training

Other treatments

Mega Vitamin Therapy
Folic acid
Vitamin B6
Fish oil
Gluten - Casein free diet
Dymethyglycin supplements (DMG)
Secretin injection
Cranial Osteopathy
Singing
Vestibular Stimulation

Award winning author of "No Matter What" (Autism)
(Psychology / Mental health - Parenting / Family - Health general )
http://www.amazon.co.uk/No-Matter-What-Sandy-Howarth/dp/1847477496

AUTISM ADVICE

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 19:03:07 +0100

Dealing with the stress of the diagnosis
No parent expects to hear that their child is Autistic. In addition the shock of the diagnosis can leave parents drained of physical, mental and emotional energy. Therefore, it is important to conserve your energy to focus on areas of priority. Parents of Autistic children experience high stress levels, as everyday parenting skills are not adequate and effective when dealing with a child who is locked in their own little world.

The frustration, guilt, anger and resentment play a role in contributing to the added strain on the parents. Parents feel guilt as they blame themselves in feeling that perhaps the condition could have been avoided and frustrated in not being able to cope or get through to their child. Furthermore, a lack of external support adds to the difficulty in participating and enjoying everyday activities.

Allow others to support you in recognising the difficulties that you are faced with. This in turn will encourage those who genuinely want to assist, to offer support at times when coping becomes more than a challenge. Don’t let yourself wallow in self pity, rather help yourself move through the process by recognising how you feel and find ways to deal with what you are experiencing. A friend who is ready to listen, or a diary in which you can write down and assess the process, will help you find a way forward.

Take care of yourself and look at relaxation methods to take your mind off the stressful situation. Give yourself time to accept your feelings and come to terms with the diagnosis. Seek professional help or counselling if you feel that you need it. Recognising your stress level is necessary in order to learn how to manage it. Following the diagnosis of Autism, parents are faced with fear, worry and anxiety which are the root causes of stress which results in an inability to cope. Excessive stress levels will lead to illness and stop you from doing the best for your child. A high stress level which leaves you mentally and physically exhausted on a regular basis means it is time to seek professional help.

Award winning author of "No Matter What" (Autism)
(Psychology / Mental health - Parenting / Family - Health general )
http://www.amazon.co.uk/No-Matter-What-Sandy-Howarth/dp/1847477496

WHAT IS AUTISM?

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 19:05:11 +0100

Autism was first recognised by Leo Kanner in 1943 - a hugely complex neurological disorder marked by the "Triad of Impairments" which shows difficulties in the areas of communication, social interaction and imagination. It is also a spectrum disorder in which the individual demonstrating traits of autism can fit in anywhere within the spectrum. The symptoms can vary from mild to moderate to severe where some show accompanying learning disabilities. Autistic children appear to be indifferent and aloof living in a world of their own, where they are unable to form emotional bonds and lack the understanding, thoughts and feelings of others. Following the recognition of Autism, Hans Asperger in 1944 identified a condition which had similar traits to Autism which is known today as Asperger’s Syndrome. Individuals with Asperger’s are very rarely mentally retarded while being generally seen as odd with unusual interests.

Traits to look out for:

Difficulty with verbal communication
Difficulty with nonverbal communication
Lacking in social development
Lacking in emotional development
Lacking in imagination
Lacking or no eye contact
Insistence on routine
Difficulty with taking turns
Over or under sensitive senses
Play in a manner that is unusual or odd
Lack of awareness to danger
Repetitive or obsessive behaviour
Bizarre behaviour
Hyperactive
Passive
Gives impression of being deaf or blind
Spinning objects
Laughing or crying for no apparent reason
Prefer being alone
Echolalia
Lack of awareness of personal space
Lack of facial expression
Unusual body posture
Lack of ability to imitate
Lack of ability to sustain a conversation
Lack of ability to gesture

Poor eating habits

Award winning author of "No Matter What" (Autism)
(Psychology / Mental health - Parenting / Family - Health general )
http://www.amazon.co.uk/No-Matter-What-Sandy-Howarth/dp/1847477496

AUTISM AND PARENT CONCERNS

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 19:05:55 +0100

Parents are faced with an array of concerns when dealing with an Autistic child. Reaching out for what the future holds while struggling to obtain services becomes a priority. Nevertheless, a positive future for an Autistic child is one that offers them the support to achieve their full potential. The opportunity to gain meaningful language offers greater promise for an Autistic child who can use language to communicate and cope within our world. However, a child who demonstrates passive behaviour has a greater potential to learn through their level of acceptance and tolerance in situations as a rule. In addition a general compliance with learning will enable more people to work with the child allowing the child the opportunity to acquire more skills, which will create a positive impact on the child’s future.

A greater awareness of Autism and special needs today has resulted in an increase in acceptance from society and services than previously recognised. The interventions that have been recognised as treatments for Autism suggest that there is a great deal more hope than it was previously thought possible. However, when it comes to obtaining services the children with less severe symptoms who are more able to adapt tend to benefit most. Added learning difficulties and profound and complex needs means extra resources which I have found through experience are not readily available. This leaves the Autistic child with a greater need for support struggling further as the years go by. The struggle that parents are faced with is that a demanding Autistic child exhibits a strength of character in expressing their level of frustration in dealing with the world. However, the authorities choose to ignore the strength while seeing it as a difficult or no hope situation. This is a totally narrow minded view.

Severely affected children who do not receive adequate support tend to be less likely to live independently. Though, children who gain the ability to integrate stand a greater chance in living independently as adults. Though, it is said to be rare as most Autistic individuals have shown a need for some degree of supervision as they reached adulthood.

Concerns and stress on family
A child who lacks meaningful play and social interaction is a cause for concern to most parents. A child may display unpredictable behaviour or be a danger to themselves or others or even considered a nuisance to those who may not be so tolerant. As a result parents feel a need to watch their child constantly. The behaviours tend to take time away from time to relax which leaves a parent overly tired and drained of energy to function normally on a daily basis. It is a must that parents find time to relax and function within a family setting. Finding the most effective ways of dealing with situations will help eliminate the stress levels which stop a family from functioning normally.

Most children make friends easily as they are able to interact socially or occupy themselves. An Autistic child who lacks leisure skills needs a constantly structured and supervised day which makes the flexibility of family life, social events and holidays tiresome. The additional challenges of getting their child off to sleep keeps the parents drained of all energy. Letting it reach this stage is harmful to the parents as well as to the rest of the family. A parent in such a situation is likely to end up suffering from burnout, depression or other health problems.
Award winning author of "No Matter What" (Autism)
(Psychology / Mental health - Parenting / Family - Health general )
http://www.amazon.co.uk/No-Matter-What-Sandy-Howarth/dp/1847477496

A SPIRITUAL OUTLOOK ON AUTISM

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 19:07:01 +0100

Looking at how to deal with the challenges of autism the most effective way I have found is to understand and learn to accept the condition. Here, we are confronted with the first hurdle which is the question of the cause - the answer often leading to “we don’t know.... “ or “we think it is….” People look to find answers, apportion blame or escape from the reality of the life-long care that goes with a diagnosis such as autism. It continues to create high stress levels within the family. We look at the impact on our families and the social stigma but we forget the most important factor and that is the impact on the life of the individual with autism.

True acceptance goes beyond any other joy that one can experience - It offers strength, hope, courage and a deeper and more meaningful outlook on what some may see as a tragedy. It removes the pain of helplessness and offers a sense of purpose, driven by an endless wave of strength. We learn to understand why we stop functioning when all goes wrong and accept that life does not always turn out the way we expect it to turn out. A positive and purposeful view takes us through the challenges with a deep understanding of what we are to face. We see the truth within ourselves and we find that inner strength to offer support to those whose lives would not be fulfilled without our involvement. “This is a pure and true purpose which bears no bound”

What does an autistic child teach us?
• Patience
• Looks can be deceptive
• Honesty and innocence
• To give love unconditionally
• To be grateful for small mercies
• To be understanding of others in distress
• To focus on priorities
• To find a hidden strength
• To sharpen your sense of awareness

Award winning author of "No Matter What" (Autism)
(Psychology / Mental health - Parenting / Family - Health general )
http://www.amazon.co.uk/No-Matter-What-Sandy-Howarth/dp/1847477496

Understanding autistic behaviour

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 19:07:30 +0100

Understanding Autistic behaviour

Autistic children pose challenges to parents and care givers due to the lack of understanding between each other. It is difficult to assess how much a non verbal Autistic child knows through watching television or information they may have acquired from their environment. A close observation of the child will help recognise the cues associated with Autistic behaviour.

Anxiety is a major factor in the life of an Autistic person. The stronger the feeling of anxiety, the more difficult it would be for an Autistic individual to cope with changes in routine or unexpected demands placed on him/her. Therefore, it is essential to identify the cause behind the anxiety and fear to find ways of dealing with the situation. The behaviours need to be dealt with through a great deal of patience, understanding and acceptance of what the child is experiencing.

Award winning author of "No Matter What" (Autism)
(Psychology / Mental health - Parenting / Family - Health general )
http://www.amazon.co.uk/No-Matter-What-Sandy-Howarth/dp/1847477496

AUTISM - IS IT THE MMR VACCINE?

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 19:08:25 +0100

Is it the MMR vaccine?

My child regressed after the MMR vaccine at 15 months just as a large proportion of other Autistic children did. I do not blame the vaccine for Steven’s Autism, as having studied Steven very closely I recognised that he displayed behaviour that was different or lacking in normal development even before the time when the regression took place. I had concerns over Steven’s level of activity, his erratic sleep pattern and the comprehension of language before he had his MMR vaccination. I was only able to learn this by studying Steven very closely. I had taken Steven to a baby group from the age of 4 months, thereafter to a toddler group where I was constantly observing Steven alongside other babies and toddlers. Furthermore, Steven and I travelled for 2 months during the time of the vaccination. In my view, although Steven seemed to develop many age appropriate skills by the time he reached 15 months, he did not possess enough to be called non-Autistic. 15 months is an age where most toddlers assert themselves and become aware of themselves. If the Autism was lying dormant in his system this could have been a time that it triggered.

Recognising Steven’s loss of skills after the MMR vaccination together with symptoms in behaviour before the MMR could have meant a genetic susceptibility which triggered at a certain age in his development. I cannot say if the MMR acted as a trigger and enhanced the severity of the Autism or if it was caused by some other environmental factor or even just the age where he recognised his own difficulties. Whatever the reason, I had to look at ways of helping Steven learn to cope with the world. However, I did not hesitate to give Steven’s younger sister the vaccination when it was due, as I was clear from her level of alertness that Autism was not a factor.

Award winning author of "No Matter What" (Autism)
(Psychology / Mental health - Parenting / Family - Health general )
http://www.amazon.co.uk/No-Matter-What-Sandy-Howarth/dp/1847477496

ACT NOW - press release and visit to Downing Street

Wed, 20 Oct 2010 16:22:27 +0100

Six leading autism Campaigners: Carole Rutherford - Co-founder (Autism In Mind), Ivan Corea (UK Autism Foundation), Richard Exley (Autism Consultancy Services), Anna Kennedy (Hillcrest Autism Services and best selling biography “Not Stupid”), Alison Wiles (Founder Autism – United Kingdom) and Sandy Howarth author of “No Matter What”(Autism) all determined to protect the future of families with Autism in the UK launched their own Impact Assessment Report on 18th October 2010 at the De Vere Hotel, Portland Place, London.

The 33 page thorough and detailed report takes first hand accounts to highlight the needs of families with autism. The report focuses strongly on the impact of cuts on families with autism – the evidence is clear that autism drives families into poverty and this report explains the difficulties facing families and the need for financial support. The guest list included Members of Parliament, Lords, the National Autistic Society, other service providers, parents and young people with Autism and Asperger’s Syndrome. The message which was delivered on the day was loud and clear with the hope of decision makers taking note and listening to the voice of autism.

The “ACT NOW” Campaign has gained an enormous amount of national support through the strength, commitment and tireless efforts of its founders. Following an extremely successful launch the six founders of “ACT NOW” headed off to Downing Street at 3pm to present the much valued Impact Assessment Report and to deliver 6000 signatures on a petition.

THE FAILURE OF THE SYSTEM TO SUPPORT FAMILIES WITH AUTISM IS ALL TOO COMMON AND THE FOUNDERS HOPE THAT THEIR IMPACT ASSESSMENT REPORT WILL BRING ATTENTION TO WHY THE SYSTEM IS FAILING OUR FAMILIES AND WHAT MEASURES NEED TO BE TAKEN TO SECURE THE FUTURE OF OUR AUTISM COMMUNITY.