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Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a group of developmental disorders that start during childhood. They affect how someone communicates, interacts with others, and behaves. ASD affects each person in different ways. It is hard to find treatments that work for all people who have ASD. If you have been diagnosed with ASD, you may be relieved to now know why you have felt different or behaved a certain way. You may also have questions about the treatment ahead, how to get the support you need, and how to deal with ASD from day to day.

With treatment and support, you can live a full life with ASD and manage your symptoms.

What actions can I take to manage autism spectrum disorder?

Stress is your body's reaction to life changes and events, both good and bad. Stress can last for just a few hours. It can also be ongoing. Talk with your healthcare provider or therapist if you would like to learn more about ways to reduce your stress. Choose a method of lowering stress (stress reduction technique) that fits your lifestyle and personality, such as:

1. Muscle relaxation. To do this, tense your muscles on purpose and then relax them.
2. Keeping a stress diary. This can help you learn what causes your stress to start (figure out your triggers). It can also help you learn how to control your response to those triggers.
3. Adding humour to your life by watching funny films or TV programmes.
4. Getting plenty of sleep.
5. Doing things that help you relax, such as exercise, music, or art.
6. Practising mindfulness, yoga, or deep breathing.
7. Eating a healthy diet.

Take your medicine

Your healthcare provider may prescribe medicine to treat other conditions you have. These conditions may include:

1. Anxiety or depression.
2. Aggression or feeling irritable.
3. Being unable to pay attention (inattention).
4. Being overly active (hyperactivity).
5. Sleep problems.
6. Repeating physical or mental acts that you feel you have to do (compulsive behaviour).
7. Seizures.

Talk with your chemist or healthcare provider about:

1. All medicines that you take.
2. The side effects they may cause.
3. Which medicines are safe to take together.

Tell your healthcare provider or chemist if your medicines are causing any side effects.

Learn social skills

Your healthcare provider may suggest therapy that teaches you social skills. With social skills training, you can:

1. Learn about social cues and how to watch for them.
2. Better understand non-verbal communication, such as facial expressions and body language.
3. Learn the right responses for social situations.
4. Improve your friendships.

How to recognise changes in your condition

Living with ASD is different for everyone. You and your healthcare provider will work together to decide next steps in your treatment plan. Talk with your healthcare provider if you feel that your symptoms are getting worse.

Follow these instructions at home:

a. Learn as much as you can about ASD. Make sure you understand it.

b. Follow your treatment plan as told. Make it your goal to take part in all treatment decisions (shared decision-making).

1. Shared decision-making with your healthcare provider should be part of your total treatment plan.
2. Work closely with your healthcare providers and family to get the therapies you need.

c. Do not use alcohol and other substances that may keep your medicines from working properly.

d. Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as instructed by your healthcare provider. Check with your healthcare provider before taking any new medicines.

e. Keep all follow-up appointments. Treatment is more effective when started early.

Where to find support

Talking to others

Trusted friends and family can offer support and guidance. Reach out to them to explain your condition and how you are feeling. Mention that you are working with your healthcare provider. Start by telling them about any of your behaviours which are symptoms of ASD. Your diagnosis could help them understand why you sometimes have a hard time connecting with friends or family.

It is important for your family and close friends to learn as much as they can about your ASD. This will help them understand your behaviour and help you as needed.

Finances

Depending on the country you live in, there may be help for dealing with the costs of living with ASD. Some resources include not-for-profit organisations and local government programmes. You should also check with your insurance carrier to learn what ASD treatment is covered by your plan.

If you are taking medicines, you may be able to get the generic forms. These may cost less than brand-name medicines. Some makers of prescription medicines also offer help to people who cannot afford the medicines that they need.

Therapy and support groups

Your healthcare provider may recommend behavioural, educational, or social skills therapies. These involve working with a psychologist, social worker, behavioural teacher, or other mental health provider. Therapy may help you reduce how severe your ASD symptoms are. It may also help you manage symptoms of other problems that involve your behaviour or emotions.