You know the term “autism spectrum disorder,” but unless you’ve loved a child who has developed this condition, you may be unaware of what it really means. What is autism spectrum disorder? Referred to as ASD, autism spectrum disorder is a developmental condition that affects how people communicate and behave. Generally, ASD is diagnosed by the time a person is two years old. As a result, it’s a highly manageable condition with the help of an autism spectrum disorder treatment program. It’s important to note, however, that life with an autistic child can be challenging for parents and family members, especially during the teenage years. For this reason, it may be beneficial to seek additional support.
Camp Worth in Texas is an oasis for parents and their children who struggle with ASD. With treatment options available for teens ages 11 to 17, we help families cope with the stress and frustration that often accompanies autism spectrum disorder. To learn more about your child’s treatment options, reach out to the experts at Camp Worth today by calling 855.915.2545.
What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
What is autism spectrum disorder? This term, more commonly known as ASD or simply autism, affects roughly one in every 54 people born in the United States, or 3.5 million. Worldwide, it impacts close to one percent of the population. Consequently, if your teen struggles with autism, your family is far from alone. There are many people out there who understand the exact challenges you face, your triumphs and heartbreaks, and how difficult it is to accept that the child you love may have limitations. That said, with the right help, your child’s world can become bigger than either of you ever imagined. While people with autism face more and bigger challenges than those without, this doesn’t mean they don’t live joy-filled, fruitful lives. It just means they may need extra help through occupational therapy in getting there.
Teens with autism spectrum disorder communicate differently than those without. Accordingly, they may have trouble making eye contact or listening for lengthy periods of time. They may not respond to someone calling their name or may have difficulty holding up their end of a conversation. The symptoms of ASD are diverse and may seem unusual. For instance:
- Repetitive language or behavior
- Monotone speaking voice
- Trouble understanding social cues
- Apparent disinterest in other people or activities
- Being overly focused on facts, statistics, or numbers
- Difficulty adjusting to change
Early intervention is an enormous advantage for children who struggle with ASD and the families who love them. This gives young children the opportunity for educational, behavioral, and psychological therapies through autism spectrum treatment therapy programs to help them cope with the challenges they face daily. It also allows their parents to understand how to help them on a daily basis.
How Camp Worth Can Help Your Child
At Camp Worth, in Fort Worth, TX, our autism treatment staff helps adolescents and teens, male and female, handle the anger and frustration they’re experiencing. One of the most challenging aspects of ASD involves intelligence. Most people who have it are extremely smart, gifted, or have genius-level IQs. It’s only limitations in behavior and communication that limit them. This can be intensely frustrating for teenagers who are already struggling with the changing hormones of adolescence.
Imagine having a voice and being unable to use it. Likewise, imagine screaming at the top of your lungs, yet still not making a sound. The right therapies and training can help unlock your child’s potential and ease their frustration. As a result, you may see results you never thought possible. Contact Camp Worth today at 855.915.2545 for more information on our autism treatment options for teens in crisis.
