When first receiving a diagnosis for yourself or a loved one, there can be many mixed feelings. Some individuals may go through the five stages of grief, while others will feel a weight lifted. Receiving a diagnosis will affect everyone differently.
Autism is not a disease; it is not an illness. It is a different way of looking at the world. It is the ability to see things that others may not be able to. There are some really amazing people who have been able to accomplish extraordinary things with autism. There is an autistic individual who has the ability to sense sound in a way most can’t comprehend and has become a top sound engineer. There is an autistic computer engineer who can look at code to quickly spot whats missing and fix the code. There may be difficult times, and strangers may not understand, but autism can be a strength. The way you approach and handle the diagnoses will make all the difference. A positive look will help yield a positive outcome.
Let AAI help you see the positive side of autism. Our services can help you bring out the extraordinary and handle difficult times. Together, we empower the whole family and have some fun reaching milestones.
To learn more about the history of autism, check out this timeline.
Child Diagnosed With ASD: Now What?
Receiving a diagnosis of autism for your child can be a moment filled with a range of emotions. As parents or caregivers, it’s crucial to understand and navigate this new journey with care and information. Here’s a guide to help you through this process:
1. Understand That You Haven’t Done Anything Wrong: First and foremost, know that an autism diagnosis is not the result of anything you did or didn’t do. Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition, and its causes are complex and not fully understood. It’s natural to have many emotions and questions, but self-blame is not productive.
2. It’s Okay To Feel Unsure: Feeling uncertain or overwhelmed is a common reaction. You might experience a range of emotions, which is entirely normal. Understanding the five stages of grief (denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance) might help you make sense of your emotions. This process is not linear and reflects the complexity of the emotions involved.
3. Empower Yourself With Knowledge: One of the most effective ways to support your child is to educate yourself about autism. Knowledge about the condition will empower you to make informed decisions and advocate for your child’s needs.
4. Explore Available Services: Investigate what services are available for your child. This includes asking about Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and what its benefits can be for your child. Look for any ASD support groups in your area. Talk to your school to see what they may be able to offer. Asking you insurance what costs they may be able to help with in making sure your child gets the best care possible.
5. Collaborate With Your Child’s School: Establish a cooperative relationship with your child’s school. Inquire if the school is open to collaboration with AAI or other service providers to support your child’s education and development.
6. Consider If AAI Is The Right Fit: It’s important to find the right support that aligns with your child’s needs and your family’s values. Don’t hesitate to ask any and all questions to determine if AAI is a good fit for your family.
7. We’re Here to Help: If you decide to seek services from AAI, know that we are here to assist you through the process. We have had the privilege of supporting hundreds of families and can ease any nerves you may have. We’re prepared to answer any questions you might have, ensuring you feel confident and supported in this journey.
Remember, you are not alone in this. There are communities, professionals, and organizations ready to support you. Each individual with autism is unique, and with the right support, they can thrive and reach their full potential.