What Happens if Autism Goes Untreated?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a condition that affects people in numerous ways. No cure exists for autism spectrum disorder, and there is no one-size-fits-all treatment. However, experts concurred that leaving ASD symptoms untreated will worsen the behavior over time. That is why it is so important to find the right autism therapy for your child.

 

Without adequate support, they are going to have trouble relating to others’ thoughts or feelings. They are unable to read body language and facial expressions well. They may not be able to tell whether someone is pleased or unhappy with them. They use flat, monotone, or robotic speaking patterns that do not communicate what they are feeling.

Children

• May not develop competent skills concerning learning, speech, or social interactions.

Adults

• May have trouble living independently because it is difficult for them to manage impulsive behavior or think rationally about their actions before they act on them. This could result in situations where they are unable to live alone and take care of themselves without assistance.
• May be unable to work as they will likely struggle in interviews and when communicating with co-workers, making it hard or impossible to get hired at any company that requires social interaction with its employees.
• May struggle socially and will not be ready to form meaningful friendships due to their symptoms and the way they affect their ability to communicate effectively with others.
• Also, Autism can impact physical health. Among adults with autism, 51% had at least one co-existing physical health condition. Studies have found high rates of diabetes, thyroid disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, gastrointestinal disorders, nutritional deficiencies, and more.
• In the realm of mental health, rates of co-occurring conditions are higher among adults with autism compared with the general population. Approximately 54% of adults with ASD have at least one psychiatric condition, such as anxiety, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, and others. Behavioral issues—including being disruptive, engaging in self-harm, or being destructive—are also common, affecting 46% of autistic adults. The rates of mental health issues in adults with autism increase with age.

 

In short, nothing good comes out of leaving a child with autism untreated. A structured intervention has shown positive outcomes in children with autism, especially if started early. Additionally, as a parent, you can involve yourself and train yourself to be an interventionist and help your child in the home environment and everyday activities. The parent-child attachment bond is significantly important for the developing child: developing the brain’s self-regulatory mechanism, developing an interpersonal self, and influencing later socio-emotional development.

 

Looking for help for your child with autism? Nurture Pods is here for you. We specialize in personalized programs for kids with special needs, using proven methods to support their overall development. Our goal is to bring out the unique potential in each child.

At Nurture Pods, we understand that every child is different. We work with evidence-based practices to make sure our interventions are effective and cover all aspects of a child’s needs. We believe that each child has their own abilities, and we’re committed to giving them the tools to reach their full potential.

We know parents want to be involved in their child’s therapy, so we offer sessions that let you participate in your child’s learning journey. We also encourage communication and collaboration between the center, your child, and you. This teamwork is essential for your child’s success in everyday life. Join us at Nurture Pods, where we combine care and innovation for the best outcomes for your child.

 

Written by: Alex Liau
Published on 19 February 2024