OTHER THINGS TO KNOW
What if it isn't autism? What now?
It is impossible to list all the things it “could be” here. This is why it is important to get a full workup, including an audiology exam. Don’t be afraid to keep asking questions and checking back with your health care provider. Don’t give up on getting your child help. You know your child better than anyone. If your health care provider does not respond to your concerns, seek additional help. What you see may not be autism, but if you are concerned, it is worth pursuing.
In May 2013, a new diagnosis emerged from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders or DSM-5. This is the standard set of criteria used to diagnose autism. It is called “Social Communication Disorder.”
The goal of this new diagnosis is to more accurately recognize individuals who have significant problems using verbal and nonverbal communication for social purposes that lead to impairments in their ability to effectively communicate – and limit their function in daily life. The main difference between SCD and autism is that individuals with SCD do not exhibit restricted or repetitive behaviors involving their bodies or other objects.
The symptoms must be seen early in life, but may not become evident until someone is older. If your child has problems communicating socially, it may be too soon to tell if your child has autism or SCD. You should talk to your health care provider about the difference and what it means.
Most importantly, continue to keep track of milestones, impairments in functioning and behaviors that are of concern to you. This will be helpful in obtaining an accurate diagnosis and documenting progress.
Do children or adults diagnosed with autism ever move “off the spectrum”?
Growing evidence suggests that a small minority of people with autism progress to the point where they no longer meet the criteria for a diagnosis. Various theories exist as to why this happens. They include the possibility of an initial misdiagnosis, the possibility that some children mature out of certain forms of autism and the possibility that successful treatment can, in some instances, produce outcomes that no longer meet the criteria for an autism diagnosis.
We do know that significant improvement in autism symptoms is most often reported with intensive early intervention. We also know that with proper supports in place, people with autism are able to live fulfilling lives, as independently as possible. As autism awareness continues to grow, the amount of interventions and resources available for individuals on the spectrum is increasing at a rapid rate. Coupled with the great strides being made in autism research, these new resources are allowing people with autism of all ages to see positive outcomes in all areas of life. And you can be sure there is much more to come!
Visit autismspeaks.org for more helpful tips, tools and resources for you and your family.