Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological and developmental condition that affects how a person interacts and communicates with others, along with affecting their learning and behavior. People with autism experience the world differently and may have different needs than those without the condition. Having an understanding of the condition can help raise more awareness of this unique experience and can make a significant positive difference in the lives of those with autism.
Read more to learn how to support someone with autism.
Symptoms of Autism
Autism encompasses a spectrum of experiences as it affects different aspects of a person’s life, with its symptoms differing in levels of severity. While not every person with autism experiences the same symptoms, many people on the spectrum may behave differently when it comes to social interaction/communication or exhibit restrictive or repetitive behaviors.
Some common behaviors related to social interaction include:
- Using an unusual tone of voice when speaking, whether it is varying in intonation or monotonous
- Making little or inconsistent eye contact
- Using facial expressions, movements, or gestures that may not match with what is being said
Restrictive or repetitive behaviors may include:
- Becoming upset by slight changes in routine
- Being overwhelmed by sensory input, such as light, sound, clothing textures, or temperature
How to Support Someone with Autism
With such a variety of symptoms, supporting the needs of someone with autism may look different from person to person.
No matter the differences, as with any friend or family member, interacting with someone with autism requires care, patience, and respect. As mentioned earlier, understanding these different experiences will give you a better idea of how to interact with someone with autism positively.
Some steps that you may take to support someone with autism are:
- Showing interest in their interests, such as by asking them to talk or show them to you
- Being clear and direct in your communication with them, which can include specifying why you are communicating with them (such as for a school project, or to socialize with them)
- Providing a space for them with minimal negative sensory experiences, such as a quiet room with an adjustable light source
Milestones Autism Resources, an organization dedicated to improving the lives of those with autism, provides a thorough list of practices for interacting with those with autism, emphasizing communication and encouragement.
Additional Support for Autism
While there are many ways to support someone with autism on an individual level, there are also a variety of support groups and organizations that assist in providing resources for those with the condition and their friends or family.
These may include local support groups, which can provide assistance and resources for supporting someone with autism.
Conclusion
Autism Spectrum Disorder can affect a person’s interaction with others and behavior. Understanding the different experiences that someone with autism has can help foster positive relationships and interactions with them, with support including respect, patience, and clear communication.