Category: Symptoms

What Does Neurodivergent Mean? 0

Neurodivergent: Understanding the Spectrum of Cognitive Differences

Neurodivergent refers to individuals with neurological differences such as ASD, ADHD, dyslexia, and other conditions, challenging the notion of a “normal” brain function. The neurodiversity paradigm views such variations as natural, advocating for acceptance and inclusive environments. While neurodivergent people can have unique strengths, they also may face challenges in communication and social interaction. Embracing neurodiversity involves providing accommodations, raising awareness, and encouraging neurodivergent self-advocacy, to foster an equitable society that values cognitive diversity. Continue reading

Autism symptoms 2

Autism Symptoms

Autism, a developmental disorder typically identified between three and four years, can be detected as early as twelve months. Early diagnosis and intervention lead to better outcomes. Symptoms include social disengagement, delayed motor skills, limited eye contact, and unusual behaviors. Access to support services, like those provided by Easter Seals, is crucial following diagnosis. Despite the current wait times for a formal diagnosis, initiatives are pushing for expedited processes, emphasizing the importance of timely interventions for a child’s improved development and family support. Continue reading

Kids with Autism May Be Over Diagnosed with ADHD 0

Kids with Autism May Be Diagnosed with ADHD

A study reveals children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) risk misdiagnosis with ADHD due to symptom overlap. About 30% of children with ASD have concurrent ADHD, complicating diagnoses. Analysis showed that the ADHD rating scale, developed in the 1990s, may not be fully applicable to children with ASD, as some questions do not distinguish between ADHD symptoms and ASD-related social comprehension issues. Consequently, experts call for new diagnostic tools that consider ASD symptoms and urge clinicians to differentiate between the two conditions. Continue reading

5 Signs Your 1-Year Old May Be Autistic 2

5 Signs Your 1-Year Old May Be Autistic

Signs of autism in a one-year-old can be challenging because many behaviors are familiar to most babies and toddlers – such as those listed below. However, there are some red flags that you may...

Who Can Diagnose Autism? Understanding the Qualified Professional 2

Understanding Autism: Who Can Diagnose It?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that affects communication, behavior, and social interaction. It’s a spectrum disorder, affecting individuals differently and to varying degrees. But who is qualified to diagnose Autism?...