Nine-year-old Ellie Tomljanovic was participating in a world-first study to see if deep brain stimulation (DBS) can stop children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) from self-harming. DBS is a surgical procedure in which electrical impulses are delivered to specific areas of the brain to modulate brain activity. According to news outlets the treatment proved successful in the little girl’s case.
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a surgical treatment for several different movement and neurological disorders. DBS involves placing a small device called a “stimulator” in the brain. The stimulator sends electrical impulses to specific areas of the brain, which can help to improve symptoms.
Self-harming is a serious problem that can be associated with autism. It is often a way of coping with overwhelming emotions or difficult situations. Self-harming can include cutting, burning, hitting oneself, pulling out hair, and other destructive behaviors.
While self-harming may seem like a way to cope in the moment, it can actually make things worse in the long run. It can lead to further emotional difficulties, social isolation, and physical problems. If you or someone you know is self-harming, it’s important to get help. There are many resources available to support people who are struggling.
It’s no secret that autism and mental health go hand-in-hand. In fact, according to the National Autism Association, over 50% of individuals with autism also have a mental health condition.
While the exact cause of autism is unknown, it’s believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. And while there is no cure for autism, early intervention and treatment can make a big difference in a person’s life.
Unfortunately, due to the lack of understanding and awareness about autism, many individuals with the condition go undiagnosed and untreated. This can lead to a number of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts.
If you or someone you know is struggling with autism and mental health, it’s important to seek professional help. There are many resources available to help you better understand and manage your condition. And with the right support, you can live a happy and fulfilling life.
There are a number of health difficulties associated with autism. One of the most common is gastrointestinal (GI) problems. Many individuals with autism have difficulty digesting food and may suffer from constipation, diarrhea, or both. This can lead to a host of other problems, including dehydration, malnutrition, and weight loss.
GI problems are often treated with medication, but there are also a number of dietary and lifestyle changes that can be helpful. For example, avoiding dairy and gluten-containing foods may help some individuals with autism. Adding probiotics and fiber to the diet can also be helpful in managing GI symptoms. It’s best to consult your own medical professional.
Autism can also cause sleep problems. Many individuals with autism have difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep. This can lead to fatigue and daytime sleepiness. Sleep problems can be treated with medication, but again, there are also a number of lifestyle and dietary changes that can be helpful. For example, avoiding caffeine and establishing a regular sleep schedule can be helpful in managing sleep problems.
Insomnia is a common symptom of autism. It is estimated that between 40 and 80 percent of people with autism have difficulty sleeping. This can cause a range of problems, including fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating.
There are a number of possible reasons for insomnia in autism. One is that people with autism often have difficulty regulating their body temperature, which can make it hard to fall asleep. Another is that people with autism often have higher levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which can make it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep.
There are a number of things that can help people with autism sleep better. One is to establish a regular sleep routine and stick to it as much as possible. This may include taking a warm bath before bed, reading a book, or listening to calming music. It is also important to create a calm and comfortable environment in the bedroom, such as using a white noise machine to help block out any outside noise.
Autism is also associated with a number of mental health difficulties. These can include anxiety, depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Many individuals with autism benefit from therapy and/or medication to manage these difficulties.
For many people with autism, anxiety is a constant companion. It can be triggered by anything from loud noises and unfamiliar environments to social situations and change. For many, anxiety can be so debilitating that it stops them from enjoying life and can make everyday activities a struggle.
There are a number of different types of anxiety that people with autism can experience. Social anxiety is common, as is anxiety about change. Many people with autism also have obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), which can add to their anxiety.
While the health difficulties associated with autism can be challenging, there are a number of treatments and interventions available that can help. With the right support, many individuals with autism can lead happy and healthy lives.
Depression is a serious medical condition that causes a person to feel hopeless, worthless, and helpless. It is different from normal sadness in that it can last for weeks, months, or even years. People with depression may have trouble sleeping, eating, or concentrating. They may also feel like they want to die or hurt themselves.
Depression is more common in people with autism than in the general population. One study found that nearly half of all people with autism also have depression. That’s a much higher rate than the 15 percent of people in the general population who suffer from depression.
There are many possible explanations for the high rate of depression in people with autism. One is that autism itself can be isolating and frustrating. Many people with autism have trouble communicating and interacting with others. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Another explanation is that people with autism are more likely to have other mental health conditions, such as anxiety or obsessive-compulsive disorder. These conditions can also lead to depression.
People with autism may also be more likely to experience traumatic events, such as bullying or abuse. This can also cause or contribute to depression.
Whatever the cause, it’s important to get help if you’re depressed. Depression is a treatable condition. There are many effective treatments, including medication and therapy.
If you think you might be depressed, talk to your doctor. He or she can help you get the treatment you need.
According to a report from the National Alliance to End Homelessness, people with autism are more likely to experience homelessness than people without autism. The report found that people with autism are three times more likely to experience homelessness than people without autism.
There are a number of reasons why people with autism may be more likely to experience homelessness. One reason is that people with autism often have difficulty holding a job. This can make it difficult to earn enough money to afford housing. Another reason is that people with autism may have difficulty communicating and interacting with others. This can make it difficult to find and keep a job. Additionally, people with autism may have difficulty with executive functioning skills. This can make it difficult to manage money and keep track of bills.
People with autism who are homeless often face unique challenges. For example, they may have difficulty finding shelters that accept people with autism. Additionally, they may have difficulty accessing services that can help them get back on their feet.
For families with children on the autism spectrum, finding affordable, safe, and appropriate housing can be a challenge. There are a number of programs and resources available to help families with autistic children find housing, but the process can still be difficult.
The first step is to contact your local public housing authority. Families with children with disabilities are given priority for public housing assistance. You can also look into Section 8 housing, which is a government-funded program that provides housing assistance to low-income families.
Section 8 is a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) program that provides rental assistance to eligible low-income households. HUD pays a portion of the rent directly to the landlord on behalf of the household, and the household is responsible for paying the remainder of the rent. The Section 8 program is the largest federal rental assistance program, providing assistance to more than 2 million households as of 2019. The program is administered by HUD, and households must meet certain income and eligibility requirements to qualify for assistance.
Income limits for the Section 8 program are set at 80% of the median income for the area in which the household resides. Eligible households must also meet other criteria, such as being U.S. citizens or legal residents, and not have an income that exceeds 50% of the median income for the area. Once a household is determined to be eligible for the program, they will be placed on a waiting list. Due to high demand for assistance, waiting lists for the program can be very long, and households may wait months or even years to receive assistance.
Unfortunately, the demand for Section 8 assistance far exceeds the supply. In most areas, there are many more people on the waiting list than there are vouchers available.
The Section 8 program has been criticized for its long waiting lists, as well as for its lack of funding. In recent years, Congress has proposed increased funding.
For those with autism and other substantial disabilities gaining employment while in the section 8 program can present special barriers. Since the waiting list is so long, getting a job may likely result in being removed from the program. Since disability presents barriers to sustaining employment, this presents known risks to achieving the dignity of self-sufficiency while experiencing the safety and quality of life of a home to stay in.
