One in every 150 children are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. With this ratio, you're sure to know of at least one family affected by this diagnosis. You may have just discovered that your child has Autism Spectrum Disorder. Because the disorder is on a spectrum, your child may be considered High Functioning, or Profoundly Autistic or anywhere in between. Regardless of the severity of your child's Autism, it can be a devastating life-changing diagnosis. In other families, the diagnosis may come as a great relief after years of struggling to understand why their child is so different. Wherever you fall on the spectrum, here is a list of things to do when you are met with the diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder.
One: Take a Deep Breath
You may be reeling right now. Perhaps you have suspected or feared it, or maybe you have known something was not quite right with your child. But now you have a reason, and things can only improve from here on out. Now is a time to sit back and reflect. Spend some time with your child at a park or somewhere where they are comfortable and happy. Just enjoy watching your child, and think about how you got to this place. You have a diagnosis, so you can take a break from the medical community, if only for a few days. There is value in taking a deep breath and re-orienting yourself.
Two: Make a Plan
You will want the help of your doctor, a mentor, or a local Autism Support group with this. A diagnosis is a starting place. Now you have at least one explanation for your child's mysterious behavior. The next step is to make a plan of action for you, your child, and your family. What will you to do to support your child's education? What kind of a schedule will your family need? What can your family do to support one another? You may want to set aside a night to get together and talk about this new situation. Goal setting gives you focus and something to work toward. It also helps you to see progress and improvement.
Three: Get Help
Find any resources you can to help your family and your child. Many communities have programs or organizations to help those with special needs. Find some such organization nearby. Enlist the help of your friends and family. Some of them may know of other families struggling with this new diagnosis as well. Turn to your church or synagogue for spiritual aid. Research, research, research. Your local library or bookstores and of course, the Internet, will all have good information for you.
Four: Do Not Blame Yourself
Vaccination controversy aside, this is not your fault. Regardless of how or why your child received this disorder, there is no way to put blame on yourself, your doctor, or anyone else. The fact that you are reading this article proves that you love and care for your child, no matter what. Set aside the feelings of guilt and the what ifs. Many families of children with Autism have discovered the beautiful spirit inside their child's difficult Autism shell. You will too. You will continue to do what you have done since your child was born: love and care for her and give her whatever is best.
Five: Begin Anew
Let's face it, your original plans and dreams for your child have most likely changed. This is definitely a loss to mourn. You will probably always wonder what things could have been like if your child had developed normally. That is okay. You might even want to set aside time each week for a good cry and pity party. But now that you are at a new starting place, it's time to reorganize your thoughts and make some new dreams. Pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and find that silver lining. Your child with Autism is still a unique and beautiful creature that you and your spouse made together. He or she has special gifts and abilities too. Your life's work may be to find those abilities and bring them to fruition.
Your life will be forever different. Hopefully these steps will help you adjust. You have this particular child for a reason. You can do it.
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