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  Autism is on the rise. Many children are diagnosed with the condition before the age of three. Many professionals are still trying to find out what causes Autism, while others are trying to figure out how best to treat it. There are common denominators that many professionals tend to agree on in terms of how to treat a child or individual that is on the Autism Spectrum. Below are some of the common denominators that we have seen overall in treatment of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.

1. Early intervention: Many researchers agree that early interventions such as Applied Behavioral Analysis therapy are a crucial piece to the treatment of Autism. While the ideal age to start services has not been narrowed down, professionals can agree that the earlier a child can start treatment the better. This is mainly due to the fact that Autism involves developmental impairments. Consistent treatment provided at an early age can help the child build up the necessary executive functioning to be able to handle more advanced social, academic, and behavioral tasks (Towle, Patrick, Ridgard, Pham, and Marrus, 2020).

2. Parental Support: Many parents are at a loss when it comes to being a caregiver for a child with Autism. Because Autism is a developmental disorder, many children struggle with learning tasks that other children would be able to learn without much difficulty (i.e. writing their name, tying their shoes, dressing themselves). Other times, children with autism struggle consistently with following directives that their parents give them, or showing severe behaviors such as biting themselves, punching their classmates, etc. This can leave parents in a quandary and very stressed due to not feeling adequate enough to handle their child’s behaviors. Many ABA services provide parental guidance training in order to help the parent develop the necessary skills to effectively care for their child with autism (Michael Weinberg, Neta Gueta, Jacob Weinberg, Mays Abu Much, Ashraf Akawi, Rajech Sharkia, Muhammad Mahajnah, 2012).

3. Support from teachers in the classroom: Many students with Autism face ongoing challenges in the classroom. Many children on the spectrum tend to be at a loss on how to deal with social situations in addition to academic assignments. This of course can lead to an increase in behaviors inside and outside of the classroom. Teacher support in the classroom can provide the student a sense of reassurance that their classroom is a safe place to be in addition to a place where they can succeed (Mickaël Jury, Anne-Laure Perrin, Caroline Desombre, Odile Rohmer (2021)).

4. The importance of community personnel: As stated before, autism does not just affect behavior. It can also affect the development of crucial components of development such as speech, fine motor, or gross motor skills. Many children who are diagnosed with autism end up receiving speech therapy of some kind due to being delayed in their communication skills in addition to occupational therapy. In addition to ABA therapy, counseling or psychotherapy may be necessary in order to help the individual learn how to cope effectively with anxiety that comes from change as well as depression (Dieckhaus, Hardy, Anthony, Verbalis, Kenworthy, and Pugliese, (2021)).  

Because Autism involves so many different developmental components, it is necessary to have an effective team that takes all of these necessary elements. Without all of these parts moving together, the chances of the child being able to function confidently may be significantly reduced. Yes, Autism can’t be cured, but there are ways to cope with it. With an effective team and effective treatments, the chances of functioning as well as successfully navigating social situations are increased over time.

  Many parents are devastated when they hear that their child has received a diagnosis of Autism spectrum disorder. For some parents there can be a lingering fear of the future for their child. “Will my child ever have a normal life? Will my child be accepted by others? Will my child ever be able to have relationships with others?” Many of these questions remain unanswered throughout the child’s development. As a clinician, I can honestly say that I do not have any concrete answers to those questions. I can say, however, that there is hope for your child even with all of these challenges.

1. Your child is not defined by their Autism. Autism is merely a diagnosis. It does not have to be the sum and total of who they are. Your child is a complex person with a personality and ever developing mind. They also have gifts and talents that you may not be aware of now, but may become clearer in the future. Focusing on their Autism alone can cause you undue fear and stress as a parent, and cause you to put significant limits on your child.

2. There is treatment for Autism. While Autism can’t be cured, it can be treated. Applied Behavioral Analysis Therapy is the top form of treatment for children on the spectrum, and it has been shown to have very effective results. Many children who go through a ABA program are able to form social skills, better coping skills for change, as well as being able to develop necessary life skills.

3. Redefine your expectations of your child. Many parents have high hopes that their child may do something great when they reach adulthood. Some parents have a very specified picture of what they want their child’s future to look like. With a diagnosis of Autism, that picture can change dramatically. And it has to. Your child may not be able to get into Harvard or even apply to the NASA program, but they may be able to get a decent job and live independently. Your child may not be the next Albert Einstein, but they may excel at playing a musical instrument. Expectations are necessary in order to help your child grow and excel, but high expectations can only lead to discouragement, disappointment, and maybe even resentment.

4. Get support for yourself as a parent. Many parents tend to think that they are only parent with a child with autism when they first get the diagnosis, but this could be further from the truth. With the diagnosis of Autism rapidly on the rise, there are many parents who struggle with navigating their way through 504 plans for school, finding someone qualified to test their child, and scheduling doctor’s appointments with a developmental pediatrician. Fortunately for you, there are several resources and groups for parents that have a child with a diagnosis of Autism. I will be listing some of those resources at the end of this blog post.

5. Put a special focus on your child’s gifts and talents. Many children who have a developmental disability tend to struggle with insecurity about who they are and what they can contribute to the world around them. Others struggle with forming genuine friendships with others due to severe bullying, and isolation. As parents, it’s our jobs to support and love our children through their struggles and give them the encouragement that they need in difficult times. For children with Autism they may need encouragement in finding their own special nitch that they excel in to help them build confidence in themselves. This might involve a little bit of research mixed with trial and error. This might look like parents getting their child involved in special olympics, robotics, or other clubs at school.

6. You are your child’s chief advocate. Many children on the spectrum had difficulty at school mainly to not having a strong voice. This is where you as a parent step in. If your child is not receiving the necessary accommodations or help at school, then you have every right as a parent to ask your child’s principal as well as school staff about what is going on. If your child receives ABA services, then your Board Certified Behavioral Analyst can help you with advocating for your child’s needs as well by providing extra clinical support.

A diagnosis of Autism does not mean that your child can’t succeed in their own right. Fortunately, you as a parent have many different options for getting help for your child as well as help for your family through your child’s growth and development.

List of local Autism Resources:

1. Collaborative Autism Resource and Education

1-877-712-2735

2. Behavioral Innovations (San Antonio location)

5522 Lone Star Parkway Building 3, Suite 101 San Antonio, TX 78253

(855) 782-7822

3. Behavioral Innovations (Castle Hills Location)

11103 West Avenue, Suite 108

San Antonio, TX 78213

(855) 782-7822

4. Behavioral Innovations (Dominion Location)

21727 Interstate 10, Suite 108

San Antonio, TX 78257

(855) 782-7822

5. Behavioral Innovations

1401 Universal City Blvd.

Universal City, TX 78148

(855) 782-7822

For most, alcohol is not seen or categorized as a drug; however, it is the most widely used and easily accessible drug plaguing our country today. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, a survey completed in 2019 showed that 85.6% of people ages 18 and older reported that they drank alcohol at some point in their lifetime. That same survey also showed that 414,000 young adults ages 12-17 reported being diagnosed with an Alcohol Use Disorder.

Alcohol as a Coping Mechanism

Due to its easy accessibility and effects on the nervous system, which causes a sense of relaxation, reduction of inhibition, lack of judgement and memory, alcohol is the drug of choice for most who are wanting to de-stress and forget their problems. However, continued avoidance of one’s challenges can lead one to develop an alcohol disorder, as well as other mental health issues. The more one uses alcohol as a coping mechanism the more they are susceptible to addiction, damaging relationships and increase in failure at developing healthy ones.

How Alcohol Affects the Brain

Our brains rely on a delicate balance of chemicals and processes. Alcohol is a known depressant, which means it can cause a disruption in the balance, which affects our thoughts, feelings, and actions. Alcohol is known to lower one’s inhibitions, which is why some report feeling more confident and less anxious. Regardless of the mood you were in when you started drinking, it is highly possible that negative emotions are more likely to take over. Alcohol consumption is also linked to higher levels of aggression, anger, anxiousness, depression, and suicidal ideation. 

Signs that Alcohol is Harming your Mental Health Include:

–Issues with sleep

-Low moods

-Tiredness

-Feeling more worried or anxious

-Low energy

-Poor concentration

-Issues with memory

-Increase in risky behavior

-Increased anger or aggression

-Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

Seeking support and assistance

If you find your self in a situation where you feel out of control and in need of assistance the following is recommended:

-Individual Therapy

-Group Therapy (AA/NA)

-Family Therapy

-Trauma Therapy

-Residential Treatment Program

-Intensive Outpatient Program

Finding the root of what is causing one to choose alcohol to cope is very important in order to find ways to over come becoming addicted. Alternative coping skills include reaching out for support, practicing mindfulness, physical activity, and speaking to a professional.

Resources:

https://www.drinkaware.co.uk/facts/health-effects-of-alcohol/mental-health/alcohol-and-mental-health

https://headspace.org.au/young-people/how-does-alcohol-affect-mental-health/

https://www.sandstonecare.com/resources/substance-abuse/alcohol/alcohol-use-as-a-coping-mechanism

https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/alcohol-facts-and-statistics

Self-care has been a term that’s been going around for at least several years in the mental health community. Many people have different ideas of what self care looks like and what works for them. The main idea, however, is that self care is supposed to be taking care of yourself and taking care of daily needs in a healthy and productive way. There are different areas of our lives that need attention and here we offer some tips and ideas that anyone can try.

1. Physical self-care: Our bodies need daily care and attention. Some ways of ideas of doing this are going for a walk outside, eating a healthy meal, or even making sure that you take your daily medication. Other ideas can involve doing routine workouts, or even just stretches in your living room.

2. Mental self care: Our minds need just as much care as our bodies. Without taking care of our minds we run the risk of burning ourselves out on stress. Mental self care can involve turning off the phone over the weekend, taking a temporary social media break, or reading a book.

3. Emotional self care: This area of self care can be rather tricky due to emotions being unpredictable. Emotional self care can involve meditating, journaling out our feelings, practicing gratitude, or talking to a trusted friend about our feelings are all options.

4. Spiritual self care: This is an area of our lives that most people may not pay attention to, but it is still necessary to take care of none the less. Spiritual self care can involve reading a spiritual text, going to a worship service or a place of worship, praying, or taking the time to be alone.

Self care can be rather simple to do and does not require too much time on our parts. Taking time out of every day for at least five minutes can be really helpful to our overall well-being. Additionally it can improve the way that we relate to other people in our lives. If we can take care of ourselves first, then we are more free and open to taking care of others.

We all know of that one friend or family member that can bring us down due to their negative attitude or negative thought processes. We can mention that the weather is nice and warm while our friend can say something about it possibly raining. We can mention that our job is going great while our friend might say they got demoted. There might even be times that we ourselves are the ones that are bringing the “negativity around.” So this begs the question, how do we practice a positive attitude or a positive mindset, especially when there seems to be nothing but negative circumstances?

1. Make it a point to stay away from toxic negativity. While we can’t always avoid things that are negative we can stay away from toxic negativity. Toxic negativity is intentionally setting your mind on things that encourage a negative attitude. It is also intentionally focusing on blaming other or circumstances for mistakes that we could take responsibility for. In short, toxic negativity is being negative for no reason.

2. Take charge of yourself and your own personal movement. We all have things that we can take responsibility for and things that we can focus on changing. While making changes can be difficult it helps us build character and helps transform our mindset. An example of this may be to start eating healthier meals and developing a habit of regular workouts.

3. Look at ways to be grateful. We all have something to be grateful for even if it is small. This is an essential step to take when it comes to developing a more positive mindset. If we make it a point to look at all the things to be grateful for each day, we may find that we have more then what we need.

4. Be around people who inspire you to be better. Don’t be around people who drag you down to places you don’t want to go. We all know that being around people is an essential component for our health and growth. Without a positive human element, we tend to not develop our own strength of character as much as we may like to.

5. Take care of yourself. We have all heard the mantra, “You can’t pour water from an empty bucket,” when it comes to self-care. And there’s a lot of truth to that statement. We all need to take care of ourselves whether it is physically, mentally, or emotionally. This may mean that you have to take a break from the daily grind on occasion in order to be your best self. It also may mean that you don’t get involved in certain activities that bring you down in some way.

Practicing a positive attitude is not an easy thing to do. It can be especially difficult when things aren’t going in a direction that we may prefer. But like with any skill, practicing a positive attitude requires practice and dedication. This may mean that we have to get outside our comfort zone on certain things, and change who we are around or who we are in connection with. The long term benefits however are worth any price we might have to pay. The benefits of having this sort of mindset are a healthier life style and healthier mind.

Many of us tend to look at the idea of self esteem as just that, an idea and not a reality. Our culture tries to encourage the building up of self esteem as well as a sense of self identity, but the reality is there are many things in the world today that try to break us down. It seems that one only has to tap on a social media app and be reminded of how they don’t measure up, someone has something that they don’t, or how they are never going to accomplish anything. In the day and age of never ending comparison or constant negativity, how do we build up our own self esteem or self identity?

1. Start accepting yourself. There is a saying that many of us have said to each other over and over again, “You can’t love if you don’t love yourself.” Many people have tried to really focus on loving themselves, but the hard part comes when they have to accept themselves for being who they are. This also includes our faults and things that we find less then perfect. You don’t have to be perfect to love yourself. You only have to accept who you are unconditionally and see yourself as the gift that you as a person are to the world around you.

2. Adopt a positive mindset. A chief problem with accepting ourselves is the tendency to focus on the negative about the world around us. When our minds are focused on the negative, the only thing we will be drawn to is the negative. When we make the choice to see the positive around us, it makes it easier for us to see the positive in ourselves.

3. Make it a point to put yourself first. We don’t mean this in a selfish or arrogant way. Rather we mean this in the fact that there are times when we have to focus on taking care of ourselves. Many people with low self esteem find themselves focusing on others completely to the point where they neglect their own health and safety. Putting ourselves first helps us with being able to be the best versions of ourselves that can truly be present and help others.

4. Identify what you need and what you want. Many people in the world today tend to not know what they need or even what they may want. Part of developing your own self-esteem is developing your own sense of identity. Many people try to mirror what other people may need and what other people may want in order to either be accepted or because they are ashamed of themselves. Personal needs and wants are nothing to be ashamed of, and they do require time and attention from all of us.

5. Look for the good. This falls in line with focusing on the positive. Looking for the good about ourselves and about our lives is essential to building up our own self esteem. Another way of looking at this is focusing on things that we can be grateful for every single day. This helps us see that live may not be as bad as we think that it is.

6. Practice saying “no.” We live in a culture that is very resistant to the word “no.” Many people seem to think that the word “no” should not ever be used in any context whether social or personal. In reality, “no” is an essential word due to the fact that it reminds us and others that we do have limits. Limits are not a bad thing! They are actually very important in order to keep us and everyone around us safe and healthy.

7. Develop your own hobbies and things that you like. As stated before, developing your own sense of self -esteem means developing your own sense of identity. This means identifying your own likes and dislikes when it comes to every day things. This might mean delving deep inside and learning more about yourself as a whole.

8. Don’t play the comparison game. Many people get wrapped up in the idea that they are lacking something due to looking at the lives of others. With the prevalence of social media nowadays, many people look and see things that their friends have and then compare themselves to that picture. The problem with the comparison game is that it never ends. Someone has something bigger or better then what you or I have at times, or they may get the things that we want quickly while we have to wait. The comparison game is also not a very fair one due to the fact that many of us are comparing our lives to a life that is completely different and on a different trajectory. Playing the comparison game will only sabotage your and your efforts to be your best self and leave you feeling empty.

9. Try to meet the needs of others if you can. There are many people out there in this world today that are hurting in some way. They may require people like you or me to be willing to step out and contribute something that would be useful for building them up. This might mean that you donate some old clothes to charity or go down to the local food bank and volunteer.

10. Be willing to recognize your own successes. Many people with low self esteem will intentionally ignore their own successes and highlight their failures. This only contributes to the endless lines of misery and self defeat. Any success even if it is small can be highlighted and praised in some way.

Self-esteem is a necessary component when it comes to building our own identity and our own person-hood. Everyone has a right to develop and grow these things in a healthy and productive way. These steps can be great building blocks for everyone to begin their own self-esteem journey.